I recently came across a couple of articles highlighting trends in adult education. The first was posted by a charity called ABC Life Literacy Canada:
The future of adult learning in Canada - ABC Life Literacy Canada
Several trends are highlighted in this article, but the overarching theme was summarized as follows:
"The future of adult learning is not just about adapting to change, it’s about creating opportunities for everyone to thrive. From digital innovations to community-based supports, the next generation of programs must meet learners where they are and empower them to go further." (ABC, 2025)
One trend that stood out to me in the article was the use of new technology. "Technology is transforming work. Automation, artificial intelligence and digital platforms are reshaping jobs across industries. Workers need ongoing training to stay competitive." (ABC, 2025). I see this is my industry too, an example being the recent training I received on Lutron Radio RA3, which is a form of wireless smart switching we installed in a large residential custom home in North Cowichan. The training included a demo of Lutron's proprietary design software and an in-person 8 hour course with online exam. The combination of new product technology, traditional classroom teaching and online testing and training was fantastic.
.jpeg)
Speaking of technology, I found another article from Faculty Focus covering the use of Artificial Intelligence in the classroom.
A.I. is not something I have used intentionally, but I am aware just how ubiquitous it's becoming; every time I use a certain search engine I receive an A.I. summary before any of the actual search results. So what does Faculty Focus have to say on the matter? Well, it seems the technology can be used to create custom lesson plans as one example.
"Building an effective and engaging lesson plan takes time and effort. For each lesson plan, teachers have to determine how to best deliver content while tailoring the quantity and complexity of materials to students’ pre-existing knowledge. In this respect, generative AI tools can do much of the heavy lifting. When carefully prompted, it can present thorough lesson plan recommendations to educators." (Zhang & Sachdeva, 2026)
As someone who teaches apprentices on jobsites, I understand that everyone learns differently. Some people are visual learners. Some people already have basic knowledge and only need guidance to take them to the next level. Some people are hands-on learners. Perhaps A.I can help customize learning for people based on personal preferences, demographics, characteristics or other inputs. Indeed, the article supports my thoughts:
"Generative AI tools can tailor its outputs to its audience. By asking generative AI tools to translate complex ideas in simple terms, students are more likely to understand concepts. Instructors can also directly inform the generative AI tool the level of their students’ prior knowledge and the machine can respond accordingly. Generative AI tools can also develop stories and analogies in the form of explanations to suit students’ interests and hence have a better chance of capturing their attention which then leads to deep processing of new knowledge. " (Zhang & Sachdeva, 2026).
I think it's safe to say that technology is here to stay. While trends come and go, things seem to be moving to an increased use in A.I., virtual classrooms and App-based learning. I, for one support this trend, however I acknowledge that I have a bit of a learning curve ahead of me. But hey, if my 80 year old mother can learn how to use an iPhone, I can certainly learn how to use Generative A.I. as an educator.
Resources
ABC Life Literacy Canada (2025). The future of adult learning in Canada. The future of adult learning in Canada - ABC Life Literacy Canada
Dr. Peter Zhang, PharmD, MBA, and Dr. Nidhi Sachdeva, MA, PhD (2026). Why (and How) Teachers Should Use Generative AI in the Classroom - Faculty Focus | Higher Ed Teaching & Learning
Comments
Post a Comment