Engaging the Adult Learner: One Size Does Not Fit All Diane Grantham National Trainer, XAP Corporation Craig Bass Confidential. Not for distribution or duplication without prior consent from Xap Corporation. © 2010 Xap Corporation

Objectives Participants will: Understand the unique needs of the adult learner Explore XAP products that are geared to the adult population Engage in a discussion about the issues affecting adult learners

Adult Learners vs. Youth Learners Shorter time with the professional Often a single visit More immediate need for career assistance (often because of a specific life-changing event) More difficulty using software – often lack computer knowledge and skills Participation in career assistance and learning is usually voluntary Adults expect to be treated as adults and have resources specifically for adults

Adult Learner Characteristics Experience Maturity Judgment Established values, beliefs, and opinions Need to feel self-directed Have a problem centered approach to learning Have increased variation in learning styles (individual differences among people increase with age) Ability to relate to the realities of the work world

Choices Planner CT Resources Available from the Resources link on the Your Tools page Supports work in either a group setting or on an individual basis. Activities bring to life and integrate the knowledge that clients have learned through their experience with Choices® Planner CT. Supplemental activities provide concrete ways to work with clients to explore topics that are integral to a successful career campaign. Activities will support a continued dialogue around ongoing career transition topics.

Choices Planner CT Resources Available from the Resources link on the Your Tools Page Quick Start Guide Features in Choices Planner CT Work History Your Job Search Activities Job Finder Resume Builder Cover Letter Creator Job Interview Practice Thank You Letter Builder National Job Banks State Job Banks

Customized Training Resources Guided Practice for Professional – Part 1 Career Activity Career Comparison Getting Ready for Work Job Finder Guideways (optional) Guided Practice for Professionals – Part 2 College Activity Programs/Majors and Colleges Activity Financial Aid Activity Professional Tools Guided Practice Reviewer Reporter Tracker Resource Library

And Now . . .

Professional Center Resources Available from the Resources tab on the Professional Center Supports work in either a group setting or on an individual basis. Activities bring to life and integrate the knowledge that clients have learned through their experience. Supplemental activities provide concrete ways to work with clients to explore topics that are integral to a successful career campaign. Activities will support a continued dialogue around ongoing career transition topics.

Resources for the Adult on the Client Site Features on the client site that are oriented towards the adult learner: Resume Builder Cover Letter Creator Job Interview Practice Thank You Letter Builder Insider Info – Expert Advice National Job Banks – Career Builder Employment Guide Job Central Monster Yahoo Hot Jobs State Job Banks

Customized Training Resources Guided Practice for Professional – Part 1 Career Activity Career Comparison Getting Ready for Work Guided Practice for Professionals – Part 2 College Activity Programs/Majors and Colleges Activity Financial Aid Activity Professional Center Guided Practice Group Builder Reports Milestones Tracking Resources

Group Sharing What are the successes you have had around training professionals who work with adult learners? What are the problems/obstacles you have had around training professionals who work with adult learners? What do you suggest as possible training solutions?

Thank You! We would like to take this opportunity to thank you again for the work you do every day, and for the interest and participation you have shown during today’s session. Diane & Craig