The theoretical framework that I would like to learn more about is the Adult Learning Theory (ALT) since my research paper is based on adult learners and ways to get them engaged in online learning. My research question is: In what ways might adult learners in Indigenous communities in Canada be engaged in online learning?
As explained by Knolwes (1984), adults have a tendency to be more self-directed, more motivated, and willing to learn as compare to the children.
Questions I have in regards to the selection of the theoretical framework for my paper are:
Is ALT a fitting theoretical framework for my research paper?
Is ALT alone enough for my research or should I include another theoretical framework to complete my research?
What other theoretical frameworks would be a good match for my research topic?
I would appreciate any comments or suggestions.
Reference:
Knowles, M. S. (1973). The adult learner: A neglected species. Houston, TX: Gulf.
December 5, 2018 at 10:14 am
Hi May,
Andragogy might be a good fit for your research paper, but is there a particular reason why you want to limit your research to adults? Is there a desire from indigenous communities to get indigenous youth involved and engaged in online education also?
You could take a look at Engagement Theory (Kearsley, 1998). Engagement Theory argues that students must be meaningfully engaged in learning activities through interaction with others and worthwhile tasks, and that technology can facilitate engagement in ways which are difficult to achieve otherwise. Online learning environments provide many tools to foster learning communities and student-to-student and student-to-instructor interaction, all of which is important for those in indigenous communities, especially the more remote ones.
Kearsley, G., & Shneiderman, B. (1998). Engagement theory: A framework for technology-based teaching and learning. Educational technology, 38(5), 20-23. Retrieved from https://malat-webspace.royalroads.ca/rru0023/wp-content/uploads/sites/70/2018/12/Kearsley-1998-Engagement-theory-A-framework-for-technology-based-teaching-and-learning.pdf
December 5, 2018 at 11:10 am
Thank you, Jason! you always have great advice for me 🙂
The reason I chose adult learning is the fact that I am more familiar with it myself and it would be a good addition to our college. However, you make a good point that I maybe should consider adding youth learning to my research as well.
December 5, 2018 at 6:06 pm
Hi May,
On first glance, I also see some unique aspects to your context of Indigenous communities. Their needs and motivations must differ from those of most urban (and other) Canadians, and because of that I immediately thought of Motivation Theory as being something that you may want to consider. What motivation might they have to take these courses – Employment? In order to get acceptance to other higher education programs? The barriers to success that exist in our country for Indigenous again are also unique, and by evaluating programming through this lens you may gain perspective. I also agree with Jason’s comments on Engagement Theory for many of the same reasons. Ways to engage these types of learners (and to motivate them to complete programs) are different from other learner types, so a deeper dive into it may prove fruitful for you.
My two cents.