The Adult Learner
Introduction
As a technical writer, my function is to “translate” between those who design or create and those who need to use that creation. I must understand my audience—their needs, values and prior knowledge—and create informational materials that match their mental model as closely as possible. If I am successful, the reader will “receive” the knowledge that the designer intended for them to have or use.
There are many parallels between technical writing and teaching, between my readers and adult learners. In each situation, there is a need for knowledge or understanding. The mechanisms—informational materials or learning environment—must meet the same objective of satisfying that need. In my personal quest to meet my readers’ needs in a significant way, I want to develop a stronger understanding of adult learners. The list of links below outline some of the results of my own learning.
Planning a Distance Learning Environment
Self-Assessment for Potential Learners
Discussion Board Questions and Policy
Coaching Learners with Internet-based Research
Plagiarism and Copyright Infringement
