Adult learning: the often overlooked aspect of technical training

ABSTRACT

Advances in technology have a direct impact on individual education. We are all aware of how to engage the technology-savvy youth of the current generation. But have we considered the impact on the adult learners who are faced with the reality of "competing" with these youngsters that know more than them? New technologies require a higher level of education and training. Have we considered how to effectively train and educate the adults that will have to use these new technologies? This question forms the premise of this paper.A popular method of teaching adults the new tools of the trade is to use the tech-savvy student as a mentor to the adult teacher. Herein lies the conundrum - adults know how to teach youngsters, but do youngsters know how to teach adults? Who is the teacher and who is the student? How is that relationship defined? The intergenerational gap can become quite pronounced. Youth education is largely subject-centered and future-oriented. Adult education is problem-centered. Adults insist "learning" for them have relevance and value right now. So how do we teach teachers technology.This paper will explore some ways to help adults learn and change. Principles of adult learning and related andragogy are briefly examined. This super condensed mini-course in adult learning is designed to spark the flames of passion of education in any technology trainer. Sometimes all it takes to encourage and revitalize teachers is a "new" direction to take in presenting the learning concepts. Make it relevant and they will come.

REFERENCES

• 1: W. Wilson. Faculty perceptions and uses of Instructional Technology. EDUCAUSE Quarterly, pages 60--62, Number 2 2003.
• 2: R. Robinson. Helping Adults Learn and Change. Omnibook Co, West Bend, Wisconsin, 1996.

INDEX TERMS

Primary Classification:
  K. Computing Milieux
  K.3 COMPUTERS AND EDUCATION
      K.3.1 Computer Uses in Education
          Subjects: Collaborative learning

Additional Classification:
  K. Computing Milieux
  K.3 COMPUTERS AND EDUCATION
      K.3.2 Computer and Information Science Education
          Subjects: Curriculum
  K.6 MANAGEMENT OF COMPUTING AND INFORMATION SYSTEMS
      K.6.1 Project and People Management
          Subjects: Training

General Terms:
Design, Human Factors, Management, Measurement, Performance, Standardization

Keywords:
faculty development, student management, teaching, technical training, technology