Most adult learners find it hard to embrace technology, yet many new trends we can observe today instantly make things easier and more accessible. Some technology solutions include online or remote classes where adult learners can go beyond essential learning as they communicate and engage in group projects while facing challenges.
Since most adult students do not spend all their time busy with social media posts, tablets, and life in a virtual environment, technology must be used through the lens of adaptive learning. The most important is to make existing tools and concepts accessible and straightforward, as there is no need to overcome additional learning barriers.
Top Trends in Technology for Adult Education
Group Projects and Interaction.
There is a different type of cooperation among adult learners. Whether we are dealing with training sessions for professionals or talking about older college students, one may spot a totally different level of empathy and understanding. Therefore, using smart boards and Augmented Reality tools helps to organize group projects where people can learn the art of sharing and exploring. At the same time, some learners will take on leadership roles while leaving the other participants to do odd tasks. Using group projects and artificial intelligence tools where tasks are being shared, technology ensures that everyone is involved!
Use of Social Media For Researching.
One of the new trends among adult learners is using analysis and exploration with the help of social media networks. Some examples include Data Analysis courses or dealing with Digital Marketing. Since most learners will already have some experience, it will be quite innovative. Still, some concepts will be challenging, which is why reading the best essay writing service reviews can be helpful for editing or checking things with a trained expert who can help make things more straightforward or assist with outlining the ideas.
Field Work and Remote Trips.
Since adult education is not always linked to sitting in the classroom, one of the most popular trends in technology is using field trips and remote education. Some examples may remind us of geocaching or exploring things while taking a walk. It includes professional training courses, cooperation projects, or even community work where older learners can feel more confident as the remote instructors help them to learn in various environments. It helps to feel inspired while using technology, thus boosting the quality of education.
Open Educational Courses Online.
Another significant trend in technology is the use of online courses that make it possible to adjust schedules and responsibilities. Some examples include Coursera or Khan Academy where one can follow the basic subjects or learn how to cook. The best part about open education opportunities is not feeling shy as an adult learner since one can adjust things and talk to an instructor without facing bias or inequality. Since there will be no stress and the urgent deadlines that will always affect student learning and perception of things, adult learners can use virtual learning and remote instructors’ help who may adjust things on the fly.
Microlearning and Use of Interaction.
When there is a lack of time or an inability to follow all the complex concepts, technology implements various apps that break down the large concepts into smaller chunks. There are mind map trees, interactive TEDx videos, quizzes, and the building blocks that help to learn a certain bit of data. Since results are achieved immediately, it makes learning more inspiring. It is also helpful when learning another language or following the instructions that are provided in an accessible way, where technology is becoming more dependent on user interaction and multimedia elements.
Accessibility Factor
The use of technology among adult learners always comes with certain specifics that must be explored in greater depth. It does not mean that adults will always face the technology gap because there is a necessity for different learning methods and a complete understanding of how things work. Since there is a different learning paradigm in most cases, one should make technology accessible and focus on the basics before things catch up and the learning process becomes smooth. For example, an engineer may be tech-savvy and know how to disassemble the hardware.
However, dealing with a complex software platform will require time and instructions since it is not the usual workflow that will be suitable. Summing up, it’s necessary to constantly adjust the learning process and provide adult learners more time to become adjusted and explore each technology learning platform.
About Author
Elaine Bailey is a trained educator who loves working with students and entrepreneurs of all ages. Using technology and analysis in her writing, Elaine knows how to find helpful solutions. Follow Elaine to learn new things and make learning accessible and inspiring regardless of your age and academic background.