Welcome to the Forum and back to the fun!
Modelling is still sort of the same - gluing bits together then painting - but it has become more sophisticated
I think perhaps the biggest changes have been the introduction of sprue cutters, acrylic paint, and an
airbrush
There are loads of YouTube videos on starting models, techniques such as liquid glue, airbrushing, and making up a kit from the box to the finished model
Watch them and you'll see the latest ideas.