After connecting with my learning partner, we discussed different things that were happening in our respective fields of study. Whilst there seemed to be a vast difference between Welding and Early Childhood, there were similarities in the conversation.
One if the big differences in the trends for welding was the introduction of technological skills training, whilst he detailed this a slow to adapt, and talked about the difference between this and direct practice; this was not relatable in ECE field. It was interesting to hear that for such a manual job, there are pushes for virtual learning, and how people want to use this to train the next generation of welders. Trying to solve problems that do not exist. However, there are strict regulations on skills training right now in BC.
Throughout the conversation, I noted that there are minor changes to actual care in the classroom for children, as this is a business of caring; it is hard to change something that is a basic need. There have been terminology changes as we moved forward. This was something we were able to see was the same, the terminology may change, but the fundamentals stay the same.
The biggest challenge I have seen in my field is the skill level and quality of educators coming into the classroom. There was a large shortage of educators. There was a push using wage enhancement, and grants to get more educators. This meant that there have been people choosing to become an educator, not for the love of the job, but for the money. Therefore, there was a quality/skill change. Different adult education schools, lowering prerequisites; believing that adult learners can make their own choices and take responsibility for their learning.
The biggest change that we talked about in adult learning is the move to online platforms for classes. Having smaller assignments to make up the weight of grades, instead of in person lectures and larger projects. While this allows for better flexibility, it does mean more independence and self regulated work. Which can be difficult to manage. This is a big generational change that has impacted a variety of areas of study.
Reflecting on the conversation, makes me feel confident that no matter where you work, or how you learn, there are different trends/issues that affect each person. The underlying principles of learning are affected by drive to improve study; but ultimately it comes down to a platitude of factors, such as how the learner learns, how the school offers the learning and the drive to actually learn.
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