Adult Learning Process Research Articles

Technological support for lifelong learning: The application of a multilevel, person-centric framework

21st century career development is increasingly characterized by recurring participation in work-related skill learning, much of which is mediated by technology. However, integration of this technology into work-related lifelong learning contexts has been relatively atheoretical and non-systematic. Building on interdisciplinary adult learning research and our findings from several studies on an online graduate degree program in a high demand STEM field, we propose a multilevel, person-centric framework of adult learning processes related to: (1) knowledge and skill acquisition, (2) the development and maintenance of motivation and wellbeing over time, and (3) transfer of learning to career-related goals. For each level of the framework, we discuss issues related to the measurement and evaluation of learning. We outline affordances (i.e., functional benefits) of technology (including artificial intelligence) for supporting career-related learning at each level, and present future directions related to major gaps in the field's understanding of these affordances. Throughout the final section, we illustrate the implications of our framework with examples of its use in a research institute focused on AI adult learning technologies. Finally, we present guiding questions for researchers and practitioners interested in technology-mediated career-related learning.

EFFECTIVENESS OF TEACHING TECHNOLOGY INTEGRATION IN THE ADULT LEARNING PROCESS IN SELECTED HIGHER LEARNING INSTITUTIONS IN TANZANIA

Technologies integration in teaching is considered an important section of enhancing teaching and learning processes by Higher Learning Institutions in Tanzania. In the context of teaching and learning, technology involves using information, computers, and technology to enhance communication in learning. This paper discusses the effectiveness of teaching technology integration in adult learning process in higher learning institutions in Tanzania. Data were collected using questionnaires and semi-structured interviews among a sample of 65 respondents, whereby 60 were adult learners and 5 Experienced Tutors selected using simple random sampling techniques. Data were analyzed through descriptive statistics and results were presented using frequency and mean statistics for quantitative data and qualitative data analysis by using thematic theory. The Hypothesis was tested by using a Linear Regression test at a significant level of 0.05. The theories guiding this study are the Technology Acceptance Model (TAM) and Andragogy theory. The results revealed that adult learners believe that technology integration enhances their learning experience by making it more interactive, engaging, and flexible. The study concluded that, the use of technology is essential for keeping up with the demands of the modern labor force and for acquiring the necessary skills for lifelong learning consequently, the study recommends all authorities should allocate funds to ensure that universities are well equipped with ICT facilities and also ensure an ICT curriculum is taught from primary school to higher education levels to enhance students’ attitudes towards the uses of technology in teaching and learning process.

TRANSFORMATIONAL PROCESSES IN ADULT EDUCATION IN THE REPUBLIC OF POLAND

The article discusses the transformational processes in adult education in the Republic of Poland. The normative legal documents that influenced the education of adults are analyzed; documents in the field of adult education, resolutions introduced for the period of temporary restriction of the functioning of units of the education system, in particular higher education institutions and other educational institutions, as well as employers, in connection with the prevention, counteraction and fight against COVID-19. It is concluded that, depending on the epidemic situation, online classes, hybrid or stationary classes were limited or cancelled, which affected both the organization of the educational process of adult learning, and its participants. Classes using distance learning methods and techniques have become a priority. The transformational processes in adult education in the Republic of Poland allow us to conclude that there is a clear relationship between adult education and change. Polish andragogues in their reflections and studies draw attention to this relationship. Attention is drawn to the fact that there is a double impact of transformations on adult education: the goal of transformation is not only to reduce the tension that led to the transformation, but also to create new conflicts that should stimulate the individual to creative activity in this new situation It is also necessary to pay attention to the dual impact of the transformation of the system on adult education: it is always stated that its purpose is not only to reduce tension, which led to transformation, but also to the creation of new conflicts that should stimulate the individual to creative activity in this new political formation. The forms and content of adult education today are determined by three vectors: the needs of the labor market, the resources and capabilities of the modern information society, and the individual aspirations of adults for education. The synergistic effect of the interaction of these vectors may be a change in the way of perception and organization of educational processes for adults, which will lead to a decrease in their institutionalization.

Wikinomic Openness as a Space for Preserving Adult Learning Processes during the COVID-19 Pandemic in Poland – A Comparative Analysis of Gender- Generational Differences

The article discusses the impact of the COVID-19 pandemic framed as a disorienting dilemma on adult learning behaviour in Poland, focusing on Wikinomic openness and gender-generational differences. The research used the Computer-Assisted Web Interviewing method with 1,089 respondents, analysing their educational and developmental activities in virtual spaces. The study verifies with correspondence analysis hypotheses regarding the dependence of activity forms on gender-generational determinants and the choice of online creations. The results show significant differences in using the open space of the Internet to reorganise educational-developmental activities (transformative learning) between men and women in different age groups.

Andragogical determinants of officer-leader�s professionalization in lifelong learning

Relevance. The development of cooperation between NATO (North Atlantic Treaty Organization) nations and their strategic partners, planned transition to the NATO standards of armed forces training require the priority of continuous professional development, and military leadership. It is no coincidence that the strategic goals of the Ukrainian defence reform include defence forces professionalization, armed forces manning with professionally trained, high moral standards of service members who are capable to solve comprehensive military professional tasks and lead military units in a changeable environment. The latter capability justifies the actuality of this topic to make military pedagogical theory more profound and renewal of academic practice of military specialists training considering modern realities and prospects of armed forces development.Purpose. The article is devoted to professionalization of experienced officer and characterization of military leader training.Methodology. The study employs a mixed-method approach, utilizing both theoretical analyses (review of literature and synthesis of concepts) and empirical methods (questionnaires and expert evaluations). This methodology provides a comprehensive view of the adult learning processes applicable to military leadership training.Results. Findings indicate that adult learning principles, particularly andragogy, significantly impact the professional development of officers. The research identifies key psychological and pedagogical conditions that foster effective military leadership, including the need for a supportive educational environment and the alignment of training methods with adult learning characteristics.Conclusions. The study concludes that integrating andragogy into military training programs significantly enhances the professionalization of officer-leaders. It advocates for educational strategies that are responsive to the adult learners' needs, emphasizing flexibility, self-directed learning, and practical application. Future research should further explore andragogical principles specific to military contexts to refine these training processes.

Adult STEM Education for Democratic Participation

Many key concerns require engagement with science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) knowledge. Consider the complexity and nuance of climate change, energy policy, health and medicine, and data security. Informed voting or decision-making on such issues is no easy task; effective participation in our society requires considerable STEM capabilities. Education of all age groups is essential for a scientifically knowledgeable population involved in making democratic decisions about the future. Lindeman argued for adult education learning processes hand-in-hand with democratic processes, yet, once adults leave formal education, there are woefully few opportunities for the general public to learn or engage with STEM content. Adult education as a field has an important obligation to continue to support adults’ STEM learning. This obligation includes helping scientists and STEM educators better connect to adult learners in informal and nonformal settings. This paper explores adult STEM education for democratic participation. We begin with an overview of adult STEM education, followed by STEM knowledge and skills, with a focus on the utility and value of scientific processes and ways of thinking. We then continue with the function of STEM learning in democratic processes followed by frameworks of adult STEM, specifically scientific literacy and place-based education, and conclude with implications and recommendations for adult education practice.

When the path falls away

The prevalence of food allergies and intolerances among adults, also known as food hypersensitivities (FHSs), are on the rise. There is a gap in health services for this population. Increasing competencies of health care providers (HCPs) can start with an understanding of the problem from the perspective of those who live with FHSs. A purposive, asset-based sample of four women, who perceived themselves as living well with FHSs, were interviewed in this narrative inquiry. Participants were invited to reflect on their first-hand experiences of FHSs, their perceptions of dietetics care and their own journeys toward well-being. Data collection included an information gathering questionnaire (Appendix A), individual semi-structured interviews and participants’ drawings which they illustrated to assist storytelling. While the onset of an FHS brought uncertainty into the lives of participants, this article focuses on how learning themes reveal the importance of incorporating a more robust understanding of adult education in dietetic interventions through participants’ stories of moving toward well-being. The findings suggest that when supported by determinants of health, such as education and social support, transformative learning can be an important tool to mitigate the uncertainties related to the experience of an FHS. The research reveals that adult educators, with their grasp of adult learning processes and community engagement, could be an asset to the interprofessional health care team and improve the provision of person-centered care.

The Three Key Pillars That Support the Adult Learning Process

This reflective essay was written within the context of tertiary study and scholarly practice, reflecting on the similarities noticed between what supports and encourages an adult’s capacity for learning, and the prerequisites, circumstances, and environments which facilitate individual therapeutic healing. In this essay the author reflects on three key pillars which have most supported her own learning process through an undergraduate subject studied at Ikon Institute, while also making connections to how these pillars served as foundational to the author’s capacity to be with her own growth and therapeutic healing process – a process which is hypothesised to be is deeply intertwined with the adult individual’s capacity to learn. The essay synthesises several key concepts and related themes (nervous system regulation, metacognition, and deep listening) within mental health fields and therapeutic practice and presents a coherent exploration of how these concepts intertwine to best support the learning process.

Difficult but Valuable! Learning in Student-centered Assessment Feedback Practices in Higher Education

Aims: The aim of this study is to fill a gap in research on students' experiences of learning in student-centered assessment feedback practices. The article examines what students tell us about their learning in the context of student-centered feedback practices in higher education during online learning.
 Study Design: The study was conducted as a qualitative online survey among Finnish university students (N=35). The relationship between learning and assessment was explored in the context of formative and summative assessment practices during an online learning environment. The data was analysed using a discursive approach.
 Place and Duration of Study: The research was conducted in Finland during spring 2021.
 Methodology: The scientific and philosophical framework of the study is based on the theory of social constructionism, according to which social reality is formed through language in an interaction between people. The methodology used was discursive reading, i.e., how social reality is discursively produced through language. The starting point was the idea that language creates different discourses or perspectives on reality.
 Results: The feedback practices provided a different picture of learning and highlighted different dimensions of learning. Learning was discussed in terms of positive emotions, multiple perspectives, sociality, renewal, and holistic learning. In addition, negative emotions, disinformation, regression, and the playing field metaphor were associated with learning. 
 Conclusion: The results show that feedback practices that are presented as student-centered do not necessarily support the learning process of adults. Learning and assessment practices based on pedagogy and a learning theory can best support students' personal and social growth and increase their self-esteem. In online learning, teacher guidance and pedagogically based learning support are emphasized. We argue that in online-learning, where the role of the teacher is often small, student-centered well-intentioned assessment practices can only provide a thin veneer of learning unless students are helped to see the holistic importance of assessment as part of the learning process.

Andragogical assumptions in the adult students’ learning process to improve reading skills

The present study includes andragogy related topics applied in the adult teaching system in Costa Rican night schools. It comprises all background information and the purpose of the study, demonstrates the validity of the research and the realistic context the participants of the current study encounter in their academic organization. Also, contains the theories relevant to the Andragogical study and provides the reason the research problem under study exists. Terms such as andragogy, adult, adult learning were explained in detail using other important works from well-known investigators and educators. After these terms are clarified and understood, it becomes a tool for readers and future investigators interested in the area. Additionally, it connects this study to existing knowledge. Decisively, it includes the significant methodology for teachers working with adult students. Also, it shows which information was gathered to back up the study and indicates the nature of this qualitative research. Lastly, it shows the analysis of the obtained data. Accordingly, as conclusions and recommendations, it covers critical assumptions to help future investigators and teachers in the adult learning and teaching process.

Physician Voices on ECHO Autism India-Evaluation of a Telementoring Model for Autism in a Low-Middle Income Country.

Training pediatricians in low- and middle-income countries (LMICs) in early diagnosis and comprehensive management of autism spectrum disorder (ASD) is crucial to ensure optimal developmental outcomes for a substantial number of children with ASD in this region. This study evaluates the relevance and effectiveness of an evidence-based telementoring model Extension for Community Healthcare Outcomes (ECHO) Autism in increasing pediatricians' access to best-practice care for children with ASD in LMIC contexts. ECHO Autism was launched by a ‟hub" team of multidisciplinary ASD experts at a child development center in Mumbai, India. The culturally modified model included 13 biweekly sessions conducted annually using video-conferencing technology. Sessions combined expert-delivered didactics and facilitated case-based discussions on best-practice methods in screening, diagnosing, and managing autism and its comorbidities. Sixty-two physicians, including 59 pediatricians across 2 cohorts (2019-2020), participated in the mixed-methods study to evaluate participants' reactions, knowledge, behaviors, and impact on children and families. Participants represented a broad geographic reach across India (n = 47) and other LMICs (n = 15). Both quantitative and qualitative data revealed high levels of participant satisfaction and improved knowledge and self-efficacy in ASD diagnosis and management. Qualitative themes highlighted the adult-learning processes of ECHO Autism that participants considered novel and beneficial, such as reflective discussions, respectful mentoring, having a parent as ‟expert," and cultural relevance, alongside changes in practice behaviors. ECHO Autism clinics facilitated by local experts in LMICs can improve access to early diagnosis and evidence-based, comprehensive management for children with ASD and their families by positively influencing pediatricians' knowledge, attitudes, and practice behaviors.

Training The Processing Of Tomato Sauce For A Home-Based Business The Scale Of SMES

The Corona Virus Disease (COVID-19) pandemic which has an impact on the economy is no exception to the community around the UNIMAL Faculty of Agriculture. The COVID-19 pandemic condition in Aceh caused UNIMAL to carry out online/online-based lecture activities according to the direction of the Ministry of Education and Culture. Campus activities with an online system cause students to carry out the learning process from their home area so they are not in the environment around UNIMAL. The regulation of the online learning system due to the Corona Virus Disease (COVID-19) Pandemic which dealt a tremendous blow to the economy of the community around the UNIMAL Faculty of Agriculture as traders in the UNIMAL environment and providers of rental houses for students. Then, the lack of knowledge of housewives in East Reulet about what business prospects can be run and the cleanliness and food safety of processed products that need to be realized for public health are the basis for this activity to be carried out. The location of the community service was taken around the UNIMAL Faculty of Agriculture Institution, namely Gampong Reulet Timur, North Aceh Regency. At the preparation stage, the implementation of activities begins with increasing coordination and synergistic cooperation between the parties involved, namely Academic Activists (Lecturers) and the targeted community groups. The implementation methodology is designed for mentors in the form of a participatory approach and refers to the adult learning process (adult-learning), which consists of: (1) Providing information related to sauce processing, (2) assignment or direct practice of sauce processing.

Training Pathways for Adult Learning Professionals in Higher Education: Case of Hungary and Serbia

The topic of the professionalization of adult education is receiving a great deal of attention worldwide. This is justified because the competencies among adult learning professionals have a significant impact on the effectiveness of adult learning. The professional preparedness of adult learning practitioners is therefore a basic condition for the high-quality realization of the adult learning process. Nevertheless, the training system for adult learning professionals varies greatly from country to country. Professionals in adult education are often andragogically unskilled individuals, and national education policy also plays a key role in this. A comparative approach has been used in this study to examine the historical development and content elements of university-level andragogy programs in Hungary and Serbia. The findings show that although Hungary and Serbia are neighbors, the development of adult education as a profession has followed completely different trends in the two countries.

A “Bird’s Eye View” on Communication Acts in a Classroom of Low Literacy Adults

This paper starts by discussing the relevance of dialogues in Adult Education and Training courses with low levels of literacy. In this group, the educational challenges are complex, and innovating the knowledge creation process involves a better understanding of the teaching/learning process. With these case study, we pretend to understand which Communicative Acts are effective in adult learning process, mainly in adults with low literacy. Based on a mixed methods, applied to a convenience sample, we used an ethnographic approach, and the Grounded Theory Methodology. Using the Contextual Design approach, we developed several models of the context (work models) and got a bird's-eye view of the way the communicational acts and the dynamic acts flow in the classroom. The results showed that it was important to integrate the learners' emotions in an existing framework, the SEDA Framework. We found also essential to expand the Communicative Acts coding, with a new set of 17 codes organized in 3 categories in order to understand better the flow of communication in the classroom.

Developing capabilities: Lifelong learning in the age of AI

AbstractDue to the ongoing digitalisation of workplaces and educational settings, human activity underpinning learning and work is increasingly mediated by technology. The advancement of artificial intelligence (AI) and its integration into everyday technologies influences how people are exposed to information, interact, learn and make decisions. We argue that technology, data and evolving AI applications affect how humans enact and experience life and work, changing the context for learning. Hence, as this paper argues, the current notion of lifelong learning needs a revisit to embrace technology at its foundation. To bring freely chosen goals and ownership in one's learning to the fore, in the context of the coming AI age, we argue for the telos of learning to shift from human capital to human development, with the spotlight on capabilities. The paper draws on the capability approach to inform individuals and organisations of how they can support human development throughout lifelong learning. We then move to provide examples of how technologies underpinning workplace practices can be seen with the focus on capabilities as individuals learn to create value. Practitioner notesWhat is known about the topic? The primary notion of lifelong learning refers to adult learning processes. The policy perspective that dominates organisation of lifelong learning opportunities focuses on human capital development. Technologies mediate learning and work. What this paper adds Technology is not explicitly addressed in meanings associated with lifelong learning. AI‐based technologies dynamically interact with human cognitive and social practices. The paper argues for a stronger focus on human development instead of human capital in the telos of lifelong learning opportunities. Capability approach is a viable alternative to human capital perspective on LLL. Data used to support learning can focus on learner agency and systemic factors that enable and constrain lifelong learning. Implications for practice and/or policy LLL interventions should promote systemic support for learner agency and ownership. LLL interventions should focus on negotiated value creation. Workplaces should embrace human‐machine integration but in ways that support capability and human development, not human capital.

Training an Andragogue as a Specialist in Adult Education

The problem of adult education is actualized in the context of today, due to the introduction of continuing education and the need for lifelong learning. One of the priorities of education is always relevant to the preparation and development of the staffing potential of the education system, including adult education. The leading specialist in this field is andragogue as a specialist in training, counseling, providing social assistance and performing organizational and managerial functions in the adult environment. The relevance and demand for the training of andragogues is conditioned by the growing influence of education on the course of socio-economic, political, and cultural development of the world community. In order to find out the real state of andragogue preparation in Ukraine, the authors developed and tested a questionnaire of online adult education experts using the Google form. The results of the study show that representatives of state institutions, non-governmental organizations and public associations have enough scientific and practically oriented experience in the field of adult education. Their activities are centered around providing adult education and counseling services to careers, mobility, retraining and life trajectory design. The need for training andragogues as specialists in the field of adult education capable of effectively organizing the adult learning process has been identified. Respondents identified significant personal qualities of the andragogue: organizational and communicative abilities, broad outlook, emotional stability, availability of analytical, prognostic and project skills and cognitive activity.

DESIGN AND IMPLEMENTATION OF TECHNOLOGIES FOR PROFESSIONALLY ORIENTED ADULT EDUCATION

The article analyzes the trends and processes occurring in the adult education system. The research is based on the synergy-andragogical and competence approaches. The features of the content, principles and technologies of adult education are determined. The „adult concept“ comprises the ability to self-determination, a certain level of various competencies, responsible position and behavior. The investigation on adult education issues (Knowles & Swanson, 2005; Kolb, 1984; Jarvis, 2004) determines the theoretical and methodological foundations of andragogy, adult education technology, management and organizational aspects of the design of the educational process. One of the models of arranging the adult learning process is the introduction of professionally oriented technologies aimed at qualitative changes in the education system, at mastering students’ professional and communicative competence. Humanistic and cultural approaches are supposed to be fundamental psychological theses.

Andragogical features in the system of teaching of foreign languages

In the article, the author discusses andragogic features in the system of teaching foreign languages in conditions of continuing education, based on the practice of teaching Spanish to adult learners on courses based on the North-Ossetian State University named after K.L. Khetagurov, in the framework of additional education. In order to eliminate the “incompatibility” which arises in adults after receiving their basic education, many adults are enrolled in various retraining or advanced-level courses to meet the demands of the developing modern world. In addition, the article speaks of the growing popularity of the Spanish language. This is due to changes in political, economic and social life. The article points out some difficulties that arise in the teaching of a foreign language, such as previous experience in the study of a foreign language, social duties, a material component, professional experience and others. The basic requirements for a foreign language course for adults are considered. To maximize the effectiveness of the course, it is recommended to work with such a programme, which takes into account the peculiarities of adult learners. The programme should aim at the quickest possible use of the speaking skills of learners. Also in the work the peculiarities of application of andragogical principles in adult education are indicated. The principle of “cooperation” of the teacher with adult students in the classes affects the quality of the educational process. However, the role of the teacher is important in this context, since he is the head of the training process. Despite the above mentioned difficulties in the adult learning process, motivation can significantly affect the final positive result of mastering the language.

Overview: Why and How Does Reflection Matter in Workplace Learning?

The Problem While reflection is central to adult learning processes and theories, its meaning and definitions vary. Authors approach reflection from different perspectives and assumptions. The Solution This article is a conceptual map to guide the reader through key definitions and perspectives discussed in upcoming articles. We provide a compass for reflection, critical reflection, reflective practice, and how these terms apply to learning from experience, meaning-making, and action in the workplace. We also show how different perspectives or lenses can impact a human resource development (HRD) practitioner’s approach to reflection and present several studies looking at reflection and reflective practices. The Stakeholders This article should help HRD practitioners and others engaged in supporting workplace learning to gain clarity about how to conceptualize reflection and reflective practices and become familiar with the different ways reflection is understood by authors of upcoming articles.

Microcredit Provision, Lifelong Learning, and Productivity of Poor Women in Indonesian Villages

This study aims to analyze the effect of lifelong, notably adult and informal, learning experiences on the business capability and productivity of poor women entrepreneurs in rural Indonesia. The measures of entrepreneurial ability of the research subjects were in terms of their engagement, as microcredit receivers, in adult learning processes through daily production and selling activities; this includes the relative earnings gained from their income generating activities. The data collected are those from 400 respondents randomly selected from microcredit receivers of Bina Artha microfinance institutes in Cianjur, West Java, Indonesia. The data analysis focused on examining the effect of adult learning variables in comparison to school attendance on the women entrepreneurs’ business capability. The findings showed that some forms of adult and informal learning experiences had stronger effect on the entrepreneurs’ business capability than the school attendance. In light of the findings, it is to suggest that microcredit providers arguably should provide relevant skills training to improve lifelong learning experiences of microcredit receivers. This recommends that microcredit providers should take into account the benefits of lifelong learning experiences of microcredit receivers as one of the most important criteria for granting loan extension.