Nearly two-thirds (63%) of 25–34-year-olds in Ireland believe technology is equipping children with the skills they’ll need, but less than half (46%) of our younger Gen Zrs (18–24-year-olds) agree.
New research reveals deep divides in how Irish people view technology’s role in preparing the next generation for the future.
Of 1000 adults asked nationwide, 54pc of those in the 18-24 age category said they view tech as a distraction.
The findings from the survey commissioned by STEM South West also highlight a gender gap, with 58% of men saying technology prepares children for the workplace compared to just 45% of women who agree.
Overall, when asked Do you believe technology is preparing children for the future workplace - or distracting them from essential skills?
- Preparing them for the future : 51pc
- Distracting them from essentials : 49pc
Notable highlights from the STEM South West survey include:
- More than half of parents in Ireland value the role of technology in preparing children for the future workplace. 58% of parents of children under 18 said they see technology as essential for equipping the next generation with the skills they need for the future.
- Socio-economic differences were also revealed to be a consideration in the research: 56% of ABC1 respondents see technology as an enabler, while a majority (54%) of C2DE respondents believe it hinders rather than helps, suggesting concerns around unequal access and overreliance on digital tools.
Experts at STEM South West say these findings highlight a growing debate about the role of technology in childhood learning and development.
Mary Good, Chair of STEM South West, spoke at the launch of the STEM South West 2025 Expo (see details below),
“These findings highlight the diversity of opinion across Ireland. Older millennials, who are embedded in tech-driven workplaces, may see the benefits, while younger adults, particularly those still in education, may be more aware of technology’s downsides, from screen addiction to overreliance”.
The STEM South West survey also explored which skills people believe will be most valuable for the next generation:
Overall, when asked, “Which skill will be most valuable for the next generation?”
- Creativity and problem-solving emerged as the top priority (37%).
- Followed closely by adaptability and lifelong learning (35%).
- Technical STEM knowledge rated highest by 28% of respondents.
Younger respondents aged 18–24 tended to prioritise technical STEM knowledge (41%), while those aged 25–34 placed more emphasis on creativity and problem-solving (53%), suggesting a generational shift in priorities.
Men were slightly more likely than women to see STEM skills as essential (30% vs 25%), whereas women leaned towards creativity and adaptability.
Parents’ views were more evenly spread across all three skill areas, highlighting the challenge of preparing children for a future that demands both technical expertise and soft skills.
Ms. Good continued,
“This feedback suggests that younger adults may be focused on immediate career prospects and educational exposure, while those with more professional experience understand the growing importance of creativity and adaptability in a rapidly changing workplace. But in reality, the future will demand all three - creativity, adaptability, and strong technical STEM knowledge.
“In a world where AI and automation are taking over routine tasks, the human skills of problem-solving, critical thinking and innovation become even more valuable. STEM education sits at the heart of that balance. It gives young people the tools to understand technology, to use it responsibly and imaginatively, and to apply it in ways that improve our world, whether in healthcare, energy, climate, or beyond.”
“The ability to think creatively, analyse data, and adapt to constant change is what will truly set this generation apart. That’s why fostering STEM skills isn’t just about preparing students for future jobs; it’s about empowering them to shape the future itself.”
STEM South West Expo 2025
Since its launch, the Expo has become a cornerstone of Ireland’s STEM education calendar. In 2024, 88% of student attendees said they were more likely to pursue STEM subjects after taking part.
Ms. Good explained:
“The Expo is not just about showing technology; it’s about inspiring curiosity, creativity, and critical thinking. Students see how their skills apply in real-world contexts, how STEM can help tackle challenges like climate change, healthcare, housing, and energy - and why adaptability and creativity matter alongside technical expertise”.
“Ireland’s future as a global innovation leader depends on equipping the next generation with a combination of technical skills, creativity, and adaptability. This survey highlights both the opportunities and the gaps, and the Expo provides a platform to inspire students and give them the tools to succeed”.
STEM South West Expo 2025
Date: 20 November 2025 | Time: 11:00 am – 7:00 pm (Schools only in the morning, General Public welcome with free tickets from 4pm - 7pm) | Location: Cork City Hall
Theme: Celebrating Innovation. Connecting Futures. Inspiring the Next Generation.
