Operationalizing Success in a Digital Learning Environment Designed to Support Vulnerable Adults

• In Event: 52.055 - New Concepts in Adult Learning: Readiness to Learn, Parental Learning, and Digital Learning

Abstract

This study examines different patterns of successful learning identified when economically vulnerable, under-served, and high-need adults engage in self-access, tutor facilitated learning to acquire digital literacy. This diverse population has been left behind in the digital revolution, thus creating additional social, economic, and educational disadvantages. These learners have unique patterns of engagement within educational endeavors, at times dropping in and out of programs as a result of social and economic impediments. Traditional means of identifying success inadequately describe the paths these learners take on the road to goal achievement. This research identifies important ways to operationalize and track the success of adult learners who come to public access computer labs in libraries, adult education, and community organizations for tutor-facilitated support.

Authors

• Elizabeth Withers, Portland State Univeristy

• Jill M. Castek, Portland State University

• Robert Fountain, Portland State Univeristy

• Andrew Pizzolato, Portland State University

• Kim Pendell, Portland State Univeristy

• Gloria E. Jacobs, Portland State University

• Stephen M. Reder, Portland State University