Importance of Relevance in Adult Learning
• Teaching What Students Want to Learn •
Adult children of mature or senior parents can help nudge parents toward the technology they will use everyday.
In This Article
• Basic Internet Apps and Resources to Know and Use
• Helping Senior Adult Parents to Become More Tech Savvy
• Help the Mature Adult Close to You Learn and Master Vital Technology
We all hear, “In these challenging times, we must ….. ”
In my professional experience, one of the most difficult tasks to accomplish in adult learning: Making Learning Relevant and Interesting to the Mature Adult.
Whether training mature learners in best use of smart phones, internet apps, iPhones, iPads and more – training has to be interesting and on-target – and fun!
A fundamental tenet of adult learning is Relevance.
As a technology instructor working exclusively with mature adults (55+), I see this in my students’ decisions about what they want to learn.
I think we are seeing a shift in what senior adults deem “relevant” to their daily lives.
This is especially true when a senior adult has technology-savvy children and grandchildren.
We must find a way to help our less-than-tech-savvy parents find value and relevance in technology!
Assisting Adult Learners to Become Tech Savvy
Now, more than ever – mobile device and internet resources, tools and apps are increasingly relevant … if not absolutely necessary.
In 2020, basic internet resources and apps to know are:
1) Online Shopping
2) Online Grocery Pickup and Delivery
3) Web Conferencing (Zoom and Others)
4) Social Media (Facebook and Instagram)
5) Mobile Device Apps and Techniques
6) Resources for Email and Safely Surfing the Internet
Senior Adults Increasingly Favor Mobile Devices for Internet Access
In my work, I am seeing a shift away from use and learning centered on desktop and laptop computer applications and systems.
Mature Adults are increasingly wanting tech learning centered on mobile devices and internet resources.
• Highlighting the value of internet resources and apps.
• Showing adult learners how technology can help them overcome obstacles in their lives.
• And, by demonstrating how their lives are enhanced through the adoption of technology.
In my classes, I have seen how iPhone Facetime, Skype – and now Zoom – have made the mature adults in my circle feel more included – and much less isolated.
• Video Conference
• Share Photographs
• Share News Articles
• Send Text Messages
Each of these tools can help alleviate feelings of isolation.
Also, as we celebrate graduations and special events among the younger family members – mobile device technology and internet resources help families include grandparents and senior members in all family activities.
Help the Mature Adult Close to You Learn and Use Technology
Need Info on Classes or Individual Internet Coaching?
Your Personal Senior Adult TECH Trainer – Daphne Lee, M.Ed.
“From MAC to Windows to iPhone, iPad and social media –
I guide mature adults and seniors to the best (and most efficient!) use of everyday tech tools.”
Daphne Lee is an energetic technical trainer who has successfully developed and taught technical training classes and various training(s) for the past 15 years. She has taught corporate staff, professionals, the under-employed and seniors. A certified IT professional, Daphne trains in all areas of computers and smart phones. Her training classes range from computer operating systems to software applications to smart phones and more.
Daphne now engages retired and mature adult students in learning new tech. She makes learning new software and applications easy and fun for mature adults!
“This has been the most fun I’ve ever had learning computer use!” – Mature Adults Tech Training Student
Daphne Lee, M.Ed. – Professional Senior Adults Tech Trainer
IT Professional
Daphne Lee’s current technical certifications include: MCSE, MCSA, MOS, CNA, Network+ (Retired), and A+ (Retired).
Daphne has a Master of Science in Instructional Design degree at Boise State University.
“With a M.S. in Organizational Performance and Workplace Learning, I have refined my training skills, as well as developed skills in instructional design, workplace performance improvement, and performance consulting.
While at Boise State University, I also earned a graduate certificate in Workplace e-Learning and Performance Support (WELPs). I developed e-learning and blended learning projects to address workplace performance interventions.
My goal is to increase computer and smart phone use and enjoyment through the effective use of technology tools.
Learning tech shortcuts and best use can be fun – and expands your world!” – Daphne Lee
M.A.T.T. Students Say –
I already knew how to use my iPad
What I didn’t know was how many tips and tricks exist to make my life with iPad easier!
This class was a great find. With Daphne teaching – learning with other adults my age (50+) was a blast! I already knew how to use my iPad. I plan to attend more classes. Thanks Daphne!
Would love to see this class six sessions.
Daphne Lee is an excellent instructor!
Most Fun I’ve Ever Had Learning Computer Use
This has been the most fun I’ve ever had learning computer use! I thought I knew everything.
In the first 30 minutes – I learned more techniques to make my computer use faster and easier – than I thought existed.”
Precise, Knowledgeable, and Very Helpful
Daphne was precise, knowledgeable, and very helpful.
Daphne is a Great Instructor
Daphne is a great instructor! I plan to take more computer classes.
Professional and Patient
Our instructor was so professional and patient with the students.