Adult Learning and Participatory Training

Definition

• Training (event):– Dictionary definition = activity leading to skilled

behaviour– Interpretation = skills development leading to a

defined learning outcome– Event = time bound

• Skills development, learning and knowledge

Learning styles

Some people learn by hearing and listening.

They are called AUDIO or AUDITORY learners.

Learning styles

Some people learn by seeing, watching or reading.

They are called VISUAL learners.

Learning styles

Some people learn by doing.

They are called KINAESTHETIC or TACTILE learners.

I hear, and I forgetI see, and I rememberI do, and I understand

Chinese proverb

Learning as children

Did you like going to school?

If you did, why did you like it?

If you did not, why did you continue to go to school?

Child and adult learningChildren:• Are told what is

important to learn and accept this

• Accept the information being presented at face value

• Expect that what they are learning will be useful in their long-term future

Adults:• Decide for themselves

what is important to learn

• Take in information based on their own experiences

• Expect that what they are learning will be useful immediately

Child and adult learning (continued)

Children:• Have little ability to

serve as a knowledgeable resource to the teacher or the rest of the class

Adults:• Have experiences

and skills to share with the facilitator and the other participants

Adult learning principles• Adults need to know why they need to learn

something • Adults need to learn by using their own

experiences• Adults approach learning as problem-solving • Adults learn best when the topic is of

immediate value• Adult learning is an active process of

reflection and discussion

Effective training?

In the past, much ‘training’ looked like this:

Participatory training

Training based around adult learning principles looks more like this:

Participatory training: key features• Trainer’s role is to ask questions and facilitate

discussions• Both trainers and trainees are knowledgeable and

experienced• Everyone should reflect on her/his own, then share

their ideas, experiences and expertise• Trainees are active and analytical, asking questions

and exploring alternatives• Trainees develop their own answers. Indeed there

may be many different answers• The training event is a learning experience for both

trainer and trainees

Summary

• Training is about developing skills

• Keep in mind:

- Learning styles

- Principles of adult learning

• Participants participate in their own learning = participatory training