Understanding Learners Key to Effective Training

Posted: Tuesday, January 29, 2019

By Margaret Spence Krewen

We recognize that technology is evolving at an astounding rate, touching all aspects of our business and personal lives. Over the past decade, food safety trainers, in particular, have seen teaching and learning swiftly shift from traditional textbook to online programming. The popularity of online courses stems from the fact they provide scheduling flexibility and cost savings.

One of the fastest-growing trends in all types of education is the increasing use of laptops, tablets and other mobile devices. In higher education, most students own tablets as well as laptops, and they learn via online courses. Even early education has embraced technology, with many primary schools providing their students with a laptop or tablet. Despite online discussion forums and “live chat” capabilities, however, many students still seek face time with their professors and other students.

Notable American educator Malcolm Knowles is known to have coined the term “Andragogy” as a synonym for adult education. Knowles understood that adults learn differently than children do, and was quoted as saying, “the mission of a leader is to release human energy, not control it.” In the world of food safety, trainers must have the skill to ignite the learner’s inner desire to learn, so they can absorb and utilize the training. Can this be done on a tablet alone?