Bridging the Talent-Opportunity Gap: Integrating Adult Learning Theories into Technical and Power Skills Development

There’s a title for you!

Over the first two parts of a blog series (read Part One and Part Two here), I talked about making change stick by sharing core values, doing things by design and having a clear ‘why’. Then I dived into a favourite subject - learning (read original Part Three here). To quote that article:

Without a doubt, learning is the catalyst for capability, capacity and culture in corporate change management. After all, as Nelson Mandela said: “Education is the most powerful weapon we can use to change the world.” But we’re currently facing a digital divide, with a majority of the current and prospective workforce thinking they lack the proper digital skills to prepare them for the future. And any skill gap will only become more apparent when companies try to pick up the pace and adopt widespread tech change.

As I reflect on Unlocking the Potential of Everyone ( Practical Acts ) and on the best practices Lego Set (pictured below and from the programs and on partnerships we’ve developed in the Trailhead & Ecosystem EMEA team at Salesforce ) it’s clear our understanding of how adults learn significantly enhances the effectiveness of the learning process. But it’s easy to be biased so I thought it would be interesting to explore how adult learning theories - Andragogy, Transformational Learning, Project-Based Learning, and Experiential Learning - are integrated into these journeys.

Technical Arch: From Foundations to Mastery

Fundamental Concepts - Digital Savviness - a full understanding of technology in terms of its potential and future impact

• Andragogy in Action: Adults bring a wealth of experiences to their learning. In teaching fundamental principles, leveraging this experience can make learning more relatable and effective. For instance, drawing parallels between a new programming language and one they are familiar with can accelerate understanding.
• Experiential Learning: Starting with a hands-on approach, even in fundamental principles, can solidify understanding. For instance, using simple projects to illustrate basic concepts.

Specific Technical Skills - the knowledge and expertise that people need to do their job, perhaps evidenced by certifications.

• Project-Based Learning: As learners advance, engaging them in real-world projects can enhance their learning experience. This aligns with adult learners’ preference for problem-centered learning.
• Transformational Learning: This stage often requires challenging existing knowledge and assumptions. Learners must critically reflect on their understanding and adapt it to new and more complex concepts.

Hands-On experience - To blaze a trail, people need the opportunity to use their skills and learn from real-world situations, rather than just learning about it theoretically.

• Experiential Learning Cycle: Here, learners cycle through doing, reflecting, learning, and applying. This stage is crucial for cementing technical skills through practical application.
• Andragogy's Self-Directed Learning: Encouraging learners to explore and solve real-world problems on their own fosters independence and confidence in their technical skills.

Power Skills Arch

Developing Skills for Today's World. ‘Softer’ things like critical thinking, the ability to innovate, communication and leadership skills, and social influence.

Critical Thinking

• Transformational Learning: This skill is about challenging existing beliefs and assumptions. Through critical reflection, learners develop the ability to analyze and synthesize information in a more sophisticated manner.
• Experiential Learning: Real-world problem-solving situations help in applying critical thinking skills, turning abstract concepts into practical knowledge.

Communication

• Project-Based Learning: Collaborative projects require effective communication. This not only helps in learning the skill but also in understanding its importance in a team setting.
• Andragogy's Motivation Principle: Adults learn better when they understand the relevance of a skill. Highlighting how effective communication can lead to career advancement can be a great motivator.

Adaptability

• Transformational Learning: Adaptability involves changing one’s understanding based on new experiences. Transformational learning theory supports this by encouraging learners to be open to changing their perspectives.
• Experiential Learning: Experiencing different roles, environments, and challenges helps in developing adaptability.

Conclusion

Integrating adult learning theories into the development of technical and power skills can greatly enhance the learning process. By understanding how adults learn best - through experience, reflection, and practical application - we can create learning environments that not only bridge the talent-opportunity gap but also empower individuals to thrive in today's dynamic job market.

What’s your experience?