Adult Learning

The rapid evolution of the workplace has increased the demand for professional training within the corporate entity. The proliferation of technology coupled with the retiring workforce has inspired both small businesses and large enterprises to adopt adult learning programs to maintain and extend their company’s success. New employees as well as seasoned professionals transitioning to new roles are participating in professional training to acclimate more smoothly to new positions.

There are several different options for presenting adult learning: traditional instructor-led courses, web-enabled learning and a combination of the two, the blended learning experience. When selecting a training program, several factors should be considered to identify the optimal format. Subject matter or course content is very important when deciding on the ideal delivery method. Courses that are subjective in nature and courses that require hands-on experiences (simulations) are best consumed when presented in a classroom setting. With such subjects, the interactivity of discussions, debates and hands-on instruction are often the most valuable aspect of learning. For instance, The Oxford Princeton Programme’s three-day Oil Trading Orientation (OTO) workshop offers a first-hand experience of what an oil trader’s job involves. Through competitive team trading simulations, delegates will learn the key building blocks to become a successful crude oil and petroleum products trader.

However, other subject matters are well received when delivered through web-based instruction. Courses that are designed to introduce and reinforce fundamental topics that can be consumed in a self-study environment work well with online instruction. Overview of the Global LNG Market (GLNG), offered by The Oxford Princeton Programme, introduces the crucial information surrounding the global LNG market in an efficient two-hour online course. Complete with interactive exercises, quizzes and a final exam this self-study course offers individuals the opportunity to learn at their own pace.

Popular with the busy tech-savvy professionals, web-enabled courses are recognized as more cost effective and more convenient/ flexible than traditional instructor-led course. Employees are able to participate in online courses at times and dates that best fit their schedules from any web-enabled environment. The costs associated with travel are eliminated and lost work-hours are reduced.

As indicated above, course material and employee preferences often play a decisive role in the effectiveness of the training program. However, the strongest adult training programs are able to combine both instructor-led and web-enabled courses. Blended learning curriculums offer a highly comprehensive learning experience, matching specific course material with the optimal delivery formats. Employees are able to participate in the courses they require in the format that best serves the content as well as the student participating in the learning experience. The opportunity to take advantage of a multitude of delivery methods creates the optimal learning experience for the employee.

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