ADULT LEARNING IN A VIRTUAL WORLD

BY KAITLYN YOUNG, LIFEHIKES® COACH

In today's digital era, the way we learn is undergoing a seismic shift. With the global e-learning market estimated to reach a staggering $345 billion by 2025 (Smith & Johnson, 2022), virtual education has become an indispensable part of our lives. In this post, we explore the realm of adult learning in the virtual world, showcasing the power of technology to enhance educational outcomes. Join us as we navigate through the theories, advantages, and challenges of online learning, providing valuable insights for adults seeking to embrace the opportunities of virtual education. 

Theories Of Adult Learning

Adult learning theories provide valuable insights into the unique characteristics and needs of adult learners.  

Andragogy, the theory that adults learn differently than children, emphasizes the importance of self-direction, incorporating life experiences, and immediate applicability of new knowledge (Valamis Group, 2021).

Self-directed learning, allows adults to take control of their learning journey, setting goals, selecting resources, and evaluating results (Valamis Group, 2021). 

Project-based learning, which promotes real-world application and social interaction, is particularly beneficial for complex topics (Valamis Group, 2021). 

Benefits and Challenges of Virtual Learning

Virtual education offers numerous advantages, including increased accessibility, cost-effectiveness, and flexibility. With the rise of gamified apps and microlearning, adults can engage in short, targeted tasks that fit into their busy lives (CyberCraft Inc., 2021). These approaches leverage the behaviorist theory, reinforcing learning through stimulus, reward, and punishment.   

New tools are constantly surfacing to strengthen this style of learning.  Smith and Johnson (2022) found that virtual reality (VR) significantly enhanced adult language learning, improving engagement, motivation, and language proficiency compared to traditional online methods. VR’s immersive nature created a realistic learning experience, facilitating better understanding and retention, highlighting its potential for improving language learning outcomes. 

On the challenge side, virtual learning does have a few, including limited social interaction and reduced motivation. According to Smith and Johnson (2022), the absence of face-to-face interactions can lead to feelings of isolation and hinder the development of some skills. Another challenge identified is the lack of direct supervision and accountability may result in decreased engagement and motivation, impacting their overall learning experience. 

Action Ideas for Virtual Learners

  1. Set Clear Goals: Define your language learning objectives and prioritize them to make learning a priority in your daily life. 

  2. Utilize Gamified Apps: Take advantage of gamified apps that reinforce learning through rewards and points for correct answers. 

  3. Engage In Microlearning: Break down your learning into short, manageable tasks that fit into your schedule.

  4. Seek Out Communities: Join online communities or find local groups to practice.

  5. Combine Different Approaches: Explore a combination of learning methods, such as using apps for foundational knowledge and participating in project-based learning activities for real-world application. 
LifeHikes-People_Man-using-app

How will you harness its potential to unlock your own growth and embrace lifelong learning? 

The world of virtual education holds immense potential for adult learners.  Let’s embrace the transformative power of virtual education by understanding existing learning theories and embracing new information coming along. LifeHikes® provides learning programs to help people grow and reach more potential. With over 25 years of experience, we’ve trained hundreds of thousands of people, from interns up through C-Suite around the world. Every learning program is underpinned by team-based social learning, technology and live coaching – a combination that yields maximum and lasting growth in communication, leadership, sales and life skills. Check out some of our offerings here.

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Literature Review 

CyberCraft Inc. (2021, Feb 6). Top 10 interesting facts about e-learning: what will happen in 2021-2030. CyberCraft Inc. https://cybercraft.medium.com/top-10-interesting-facts-about-e-learning-what-will-happen-in-2021-2030-9e874f35d894 

Osman, N. I., & Rabu, S. N. A. (2020). Adult Learners’ Perceptions on Acquiring Communicative Malay Language Proficiency as a Foreign or Second Language and Attitude towards Mobile Learning: A Preliminary Study. Pertanika Journal of Social Sciences & Humanities, 28(S2), 19–34. 

Kang, H., & Lin, X. (2019). Lifelong Learning on the Go: English Language Mobile Learning in China. New Directions for Adult & Continuing Education, 2019(162), 49–60. 

Pavkov, M. (2021, January 21). The importance of brain neuroplasticity in adult teaching and life-long learning. Ekopid Business Consulting. https://ekopid.hr/news-blog/details/the-importance-of-brain-neuroplasticity-in-adult-teaching-and-life-long-lea 

TakeLessonsBlog. (2016, July 15). 6 Challenges & 4 Advantages Adults Have Learning Languages. Take Lessons. https://takelessons.com/blog/learning-a-new-language-as-adult 

Smith, A., & Johnson, B. (2022). The effectiveness of virtual reality in adult language learning. Journal of Language Education, 25(3), 123-145. 

Valamis Group. (2021, September 17). Adult learning theory. Valamis. https://www.valamis.com/hub/adult-learning-theories