Isn't learning what Darwin's theory of evolution is all about? Darwin theorized that organisms adapt to changes in their environment in order to survive.
Society is constantly changing. My children, now 20 and 18, were speechless when I told then I was born before the internet. I am speechless, when I observe how quickly they navigate their technology rich world. .
Out of necessity, the field of adult education has adapted to changes in society. And especially so in recent years due to the COVID pandemic. The following represent current trends in adult education.
Online and hybrid learning: The COVID-19 pandemic facilitated the rapid pivot to online learning by the majority of learning insutitions. Now with most of these instutions open for in-person learning, both instructors and students seek to incorporate the gains in flexibility and convenience from online learning. Improving the quality of both content and delivery has become a priority.
Open Education resources: Increased accessibility to online resources allows for greater learner equity.
Data Analytics: Analyzing data enables educators to identify the evolving needs of learners. As well, feedback from the learner creates accountability for the educator. It is safe to say that in the rapidly evolving marketplace where learning is an everyday occurance, having the correct data will allow for improved agility for both educator and learner.
Micro-Creditialing: Micro-creditialing refers to learning a focused skill which typically results in a badge or certificate. The learning is usually more detailed than a single course but not as intense or broad as obtaining a degree. For example, the certification in Adult Learning is micro-credentialing.
References: https://www.ecampusnews.com/2021/12/21/6-critical-trends-for-the-future-of-higher-education
https://www.forbes.com/sites/forbeshumanresourcescouncil/2020/12/23/five-learning-and-development-trends-to-watch-for-in-2021/?sh=ec62c024d2f1
https://www.hanoverresearch.com/media/Trends-in-Adult-Education.pdf
/