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eLearning readiness of adult learners
Author
Tjan, Darren Francis Pin Ann
Supervisor
Shanti Divaharan
Abstract
eLearning is increasingly used in adult education in Singapore and the Institute in which this study is being conducted is no exception. The Institute operates in the Continuing Education and Training (CET) industry and this study is an initial study to provide insight as to whether there are any areas that could be focused on to help our learners be more ready for eLearning. It is intended that results from this study will inform future research into the eLearning readiness of our learners.
Given the dearth of existing data regarding the Singaporean context, there is a need to begin to find out if our adult learners, who are adult educators, are ready for eLearning. This research identifies several factors that contribute to effective eLearning. In particular, it is determined that self-direction, the willingness to share information and collaborate with others, and the technological readiness to use various forms of information and communication technology are important to eLearning readiness.
Results from a survey done with 65 adult learners attending courses in the Institution indicate that there may be areas that could be focused on to help our learners become more ready for eLearning. Findings from the survey indicate that our learners may require assistance in using technology for managing information, sharing that information with others, and learning to collaborate with others through the use of technology.
It is suggested that some possible interventions may involve designing courses that explicitly fosters the collaboration skills of these learners. Effort should also be made to help learners recognise the importance of technology in learning, particularly in the Singapore context, and help shape the identity of our learners to become better ‘eLearners’.
Given the dearth of existing data regarding the Singaporean context, there is a need to begin to find out if our adult learners, who are adult educators, are ready for eLearning. This research identifies several factors that contribute to effective eLearning. In particular, it is determined that self-direction, the willingness to share information and collaborate with others, and the technological readiness to use various forms of information and communication technology are important to eLearning readiness.
Results from a survey done with 65 adult learners attending courses in the Institution indicate that there may be areas that could be focused on to help our learners become more ready for eLearning. Findings from the survey indicate that our learners may require assistance in using technology for managing information, sharing that information with others, and learning to collaborate with others through the use of technology.
It is suggested that some possible interventions may involve designing courses that explicitly fosters the collaboration skills of these learners. Effort should also be made to help learners recognise the importance of technology in learning, particularly in the Singapore context, and help shape the identity of our learners to become better ‘eLearners’.
Date Issued
2015
Call Number
LB1028.3 Tja
Date Submitted
2015