Abstract
No matter the field, a growing global workforce is a reality that higher education institutions must accept and embrace. Adult learners are making the purposeful decision to enroll in online programs of study when entering the workforce or when pursuing an advanced degree in their field. Based on the tenets of connectivism, the integration of social and relational experiences must remain paramount in the overall learning experience. Understanding context-based learning becomes a key factor when considering the ways in which online programs can include learners from any location in the world, which is representative of the future of work in a connected society. The separation of physical space between learners provides a natural opportunity to provide and foster a global approach to teaching and learning in online programs. This paper considers ways to support adult students in virtual learning environments by looking forward to global impacts while looking back at soft skills that promote relationships. While not an exhaustive list, people-facing skills such as leadership, communication, teamwork, and emotional intelligence have been suggested as soft skills necessary for an effective global approach. Therefore, this study unpacks ways to integrate these skills in virtual learning environments, specifically when aiming to support adult learners entering or advancing in their field.
Presenters
Tanya TarbuttonSenior Director MA Programs, School of Education, Concordia University Irvine, California, United States Lori Doyle
Director, Master of Arts in Educational Leadership; Assistant Director, Servant Leadership Institute, School of Education, Concordia University Irvine, California, United States
Details
Presentation Type
Paper Presentation in a Themed Session
Theme
2027 Special Focus—THE CYBER-SOCIAL CONDITION: Knowledge, Learning, and Human Futures
KEYWORDS
Adult learners, Virtual learning, Connectivism, Context-based learning, Soft-skills
