As technology advances and integrates into our daily lives, eLearning has become an increasingly popular training method, especially for adult learners.
However, training the older generation with technology can be challenging and often has a higher adoption curve.
Bounce Readiness has combined over a decade of real-life experience to present some critical factors in effectively training older adults through eLearning.
1. Make it User-Friendly
According to designers at Meta (aka Facebook) and Apple, User Experience (UX) and considered user journeys are the difference between a multi-million dollar turnover, and bankruptcy; it’s that vital.
When considering effective training for anyone – but particularly the older generation – the technology involved needs to have a focus on user experience design.
Simplicity is key. Each module, each paragraph, each course needs to focus on single objectives and be presented in a way that anyone can pick it up and run with it immediately.
It’s essential to choose an eLearning platform that is simple and easy to use.
2. Provide Adequate Training and Support
Some older adults may still require additional training and support even with a user-friendly platform.
It’s essential to provide clear instructions and user guides to help learners get started and offer support and troubleshooting when needed. Providing adequate training and support can help learners overcome initial challenges and build confidence in using the technology.
But before you roll out the new eLearning program, make sure you brief and prepare a team to support this demographic. Will this be HR, or will it be the external provider, like Bounce Readiness?
3. Use a Variety of Teaching Methods
One of the challenges of training adults is that they have different learning styles and preferences.
For example, some may prefer visual aids, while others may like to learn through hands-on activities. Therefore, it’s important to use various teaching methods to accommodate these differences and keep learners engaged.
Try incorporating videos, interactive quizzes, and group discussions can help cater to different learning styles.
4. Foster a Sense of Community
Training adults with eLearning can be isolating, especially if they are learning independently. Like step 2, it’s important there is a support network for this demographic.
Creating a sense of community can help learners feel connected and engaged in learning. Providing opportunities for learners to interact with each other, such as through online discussion forums or group projects, can help create a sense of community and foster collaboration.
At Bounce Readiness, we understand the challenges of training older adults with technology. That’s why our eLearning platform is designed with user-friendliness and UX in mind.
Our platform offers a variety of teaching methods, including videos, interactive quizzes, and group discussions, to accommodate different learning styles. We also provide comprehensive training and support to ensure learners have everything they need to succeed.
In addition, our platform offers opportunities for learners to interact with each other through online discussion forums and group projects. Social interaction helps foster a sense of community and encourages collaboration, which can lead to better learning outcomes.
In summary, getting older adults involved with a new tool like eLearning doesn’t have to be difficult if you know what to look for. At Bounce Readiness, we’ve focused on simplicity regardless of the age of the user, but we’ve coupled that with solid courses and excellent support and facilitation. As a result, more engagement and knowledge is shared, which is vital during any emergency.
Chat with us today on how this could help you and your people ↗