Adult Learning and Participatory Training

1. Adult Learning and Participatory Training

2. 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

3. Learning styles Some people learn by hearing and listening. They are called AUDIO or AUDITORY learners.

4. Learning styles Some people learn by seeing, watching or reading. They are called VISUAL learners.

5. Learning styles Some people learn by doing. They are called KINAESTHETIC or TACTILE learners.

6. I hear, and I forgetI see, and I rememberI do, and I understand Chinese proverb

7. 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?

8. Children: 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

9. 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 Child and adult learning (continued)

10. 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

11. Effective training? In the past, much ‘training’ looked like this:

12. Participatory training Training based around adult learning principles looks more like this:

13. 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

14. Summary • Training is about developing skills • Keep in mind: - Learning styles - Principles of adult learning • Participants participate in their own learning = participatory training