Engaging Adult Learners with Innovative Technologies

Abstract

This chapter suggests and explores the need for a paradigm shift regarding the use of innovative technologies to engage adult learners. Some concerns addressed are: 1) The ways educational programs can be designed to improve the technical skills of adults; 2) The choices of technological, instructional methods, and materials and the subsequent impact on the success of educating adults; and 3) Elimination of the perceived feeling of disadvantage that some adult learners possess regarding their understanding and use of technology. Lack of exposure, access, and motivation to utilize innovative technologies combine to create a “glass ceiling” that is currently preventing adult learners from becoming competitive in the global marketplace. However, by applying motivational theories, embracing policies to ensure equitable technology access, and promoting efforts to seize the professional development opportunities available, adult learners and their instructors can shatter the glass ceiling and rise to new levels of skill and expertise.