The rapid evolution of technology has made software training a critical component of professional development for adults across various industries. To maximize the effectiveness of software training programs, it is essential to integrate best practices that align with adult learning theory. In this article, we will explore how combining adult learning principles with software training best practices can create a holistic and impactful learning experience.
Andragogy in Software Training:
At the core of adult learning theory is andragogy, emphasizing the self-directed nature of adult learners. In the context of software training, this means acknowledging that adults learn best when they can take control of their learning process. Incorporate self-paced modules, interactive simulations, and opportunities for exploration to cater to the autonomy and motivation that adult learners bring to the table.
Relevance and Real-world Application:
Adults are motivated to learn when they perceive the material as relevant to their professional goals. When designing software training programs, focus on practical applications and real-world scenarios that resonate with the learners’ experiences. Highlighting how the software addresses their specific needs or challenges enhances engagement and encourages the immediate application of newly acquired skills.
Hands-on Experiences with Simulation:
Experiential learning is a cornerstone of effective adult education. In software training, this translates into hands-on experiences with realistic simulations. Provide learners with the opportunity to interact directly with the software in a controlled environment. Simulations allow for the application of theoretical knowledge in a practical setting, reinforcing understanding and increasing retention.
Adaptive Learning Paths:
Recognizing the diverse backgrounds and skill levels of adult learners, implement adaptive learning paths in software training. Tailor the content based on learners’ existing knowledge and progress, allowing them to focus on areas that need improvement. This personalized approach not only respects the individuality of adult learners but also optimizes the efficiency of the training program.
Blended Learning Formats:
Integrate various learning formats, combining traditional methods with digital tools. Blended learning approaches, which incorporate in-person and online components, cater to the different learning styles of adults. This may include live workshops, webinars, eLearning modules, and collaborative online discussions. Such flexibility accommodates the diverse schedules and preferences of adult learners.
Feedback and Reflection:
Adult learners benefit from reflective practices and constructive feedback. Incorporate mechanisms for learners to review their progress, receive feedback on their performance, and reflect on their learning journey. This not only enhances self-awareness but also promotes continuous improvement and a growth mindset.
Community and Collaboration:
Adults often thrive in a collaborative learning environment. Establish forums, discussion groups, or mentorship programs where learners can share insights, ask questions, and collaborate with peers. This sense of community fosters a supportive learning culture, encouraging adults to exchange experiences and collectively navigate the challenges associated with software adoption.
Conclusion:
By intertwining adult learning theory with software training best practices, educators and training professionals can create a powerful and tailored learning experience. The combination of andragogy, relevance, hands-on experiences, adaptive learning paths, blended formats, feedback mechanisms, and collaborative opportunities ensures that software training is not only efficient but also engaging and sustainable. As technology continues to advance, this approach empowers adult learners to confidently embrace new software tools, keeping pace with the demands of the ever-evolving digital landscape.
Name | Role | Email Address | Phone |
Aaron Adams | Lean Consultant | 916.204.4776 | |
Paul Anderson | Data Analytics Manager | 937.307.4804 | |
Jeremy Arcinas | Senior Project Manager | 707.372.4863 | |
Alan Baker | Epic Analyst - Willow Pharmacist | 315.727.9735 | |
Amanda Baker | Director of Learning and Organizational Development | 720.519.9570 | |
Mark Baker | Epic Analyst - Beaker Analyst | 856.673.9972 | |
Cassy Ballard | Clinical Analyst | 417.425.0100 | |
Rodney Barker | Cadence/Prelude/GC Analyst | 931.216.6257 | |
Kenny Benjamin | Access Security Analyst | 412.552.0014 | |
Joshua Bittman | Healthcare IT Recruiter | 702.659.4154 | |
Kimberly Bobb | IAM Analyst | 313.459.6580 | |
Alison Bradywood | Lean Consultant | 206.753.8711 | |
Amy Byron | LIS Admin | 854.202.6909 | |
David Butler | Physician Advisory Consultant | 281.900.1903 | |
Joan Campbell | VP of Perfomance Improvement & Informatics | 678.382.2679 | |
Robin Carriere | ITSM Manager | 408.718.6456 | |
Karen Christopfel | Epic Principal Trainer | 513.833.1680 | |
Brian Churchill | Cerner Program/Project Manager | 617.959.1999 | |
Mark Clement | Program Manager | 608.334.3347 | |
Lucia Comnes | Digital Marketer | 415.770.2410 | |
John Sharpe | Data Conversion Lead | 208.264.8716 | |
Aneury Contreras | IT Security Analyst | 856.409.1104 | |
Emma Cooper | Epic Analyst - Beaker | 434.226.4543 | |
Cassandra Costley | Training Manager | 505.321.3515 | |
Puskar Dahal | ETL Administrator | 539.222.6195 | |
Brandon Dam | Executive Assistant | 916.533.6654 | |
Alejandro De Gouveia | Ambulatory HP Analyst | 954.809.9147 | |
Jon DeJulio | Director of Client Services | 330.207.1050 | |
Laura Del Guidice | NextGen SME | 480.332.6600 | |
Desiree Duvall | Recruiting Coordinator | 818.640.5162 | |
Mark Dynes | Director of Technical Solutions Delivery | 916.496.1935 | |
Jeremy Eades | Epic Certified Security (User Access) Analyst | 423.967.7807 | |
Charlotte Ehrlund-Potter | VP of Population Health & Revenue Cycle | 917.697.3435 | |
Cassandra Enloe | Project Manager | 916.947.7345 | |
May Esquivel | Call Center Program Manager | 916.955.7400 | |
Kira Fernandez | eCW Subject Matter Expert | 704.206.9696 | |
Charles Flint | VP of Life Sciences | 615.663.3996 | |
Gena Fouke | Program Manager | 419.708.3994 | |
Michael Froseth | Web Designer | 214.755.3132 | |
Stormy Gaines | Director, Talent Management | 972.369.6055 | |
Matthew DeFinis | Epic Analyst - HP & Ambulatory | 617.771.6555 | |
Gary Groubert | Epic Analyst - Willow Pharmacist | 330.692.0695 | |
Madhavi Guda | Bridges and Corepoint Interface Analyst | 626.710.7891 | |
Steven Murenbeeld | Cerner SME | 954-591-6424 | |
Sharon Heath | VP of Finance & HR | 508.857.9894 | |
Jason Huckabay | Chief Operating Officer | 832.425.9696 | |
Kelli Hunt | Director of Information Security and Data Analytics | 916.489.2946 | |
David Ikeh | Power BI Analyst | 615.500.3935 | |
Paul Johnejack | Project Manager | 916.579.2542 | |
Paula Jones | Epic Revenue Cycle Applications | 360.790.4346 | |
Josh Miller | Healthy Planet Analyst |
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Frank Jung | Epic Analyst - Ambulatory | 812.629.4331 | |
Marisa Karlheim | Senior Epic Analyst - Radiant/Cupid | 814.525.2720 | |
Noel Kilcoyne | Clinical Informaticist | 201.423.2788 | |
Aline Koch | Senior PM and Interim Director of PMO | 214.606.3229 | |
Brand Landry | VP of Client Services | 213.215.1117 | |
Justin Lopez | Client Services Delivery Manager | 954.857.6622 | |
John Lyons | Ambulatory HP Analyst | 484.678.3467 | |
Daniel Magill | ETL Administrator | 651.357.8136 | |
Thomas Maliskey | Access Security Analyst | 727.667.9820 | |
Kara Manojlovich | Epic Analyst - Hospital Billing | 219.798.8917 | |
Elliot Manuel | Client Manager - Life Sciences | 337.207.2999 | |
Jason Jones | Community Connect Program Manager | 513.478.5459 | |
Timothy Mecalis | VP of Solution Delivery | 920.342.6532 | |
Melissa Mercer | Program Manager | 714.812.6286 | |
Matt Lambert | Chief Medical Information Officer | 202.701.8028 | |
Naseemuddin Mohammed | SSRS Data Analyst | 317.712.6816 | |
Anna Muncaster | Performance Improvement Manager | 916.801.4177 | |
Niru Muralidharan | Process Improvement Engineer | 440.785.4949 | |
Christi O'Brien | Healthcare Recruiter | 513.236.3116 | |
Tolu Odeyemi | Epic Analyst - Orders/Bugsy | 404.245.3961 | |
Jen Ortiz | Optime/Anesthesia Analyst | 763.267.1565 | |
Nicholas Otero | Healthcare Recruiter | 954.907.4645 | |
William Owens | Principal Trainer | 510.798.1105 | |
Arthurine Payton | Credentialed Trainer | 504.813.7228 | |
Aaron Peterson | Epic Certified Clarity Report Writer | 801.669.6042 | |
Bruce Peterson | Senior PM | 916.960.7780 | |
Thomas Place | Epic Analyst - ClinDoc/Orders/ASAP | 315.916.2205 | |
Prem Reddy | Interface Analyst | 626.375.8336 | |
Regan Ireland | Project Manager | 253.318..0124 | |
Jennifer Riggs | Healthcare Recruiter | 513.543.5527 | |
Diana Roniger | Epic Clin Doc and Stork Analyst | 585.317.4834 | |
Pamela Saechow | Chief Executive Officer | 916.932.3686 | |
Andre Saterfield | Credentialed Trainer | 904.674.5598 | |
Michele Saunders | Access Security Analyst | 404.247.7365 | |
Nicole Smith | Epic Orders Lead Analyst | 904.323.9704 | |
David Stokes | VP of Learning | 949.280.1194 | |
Isaac Stone | Data Archive Analyst | 561.445.5077 | |
Michael Sweeney | Report Writer | 405.202.4094 | |
Stephen Tokarz | Chief People Officer | 847.275.1489 | |
Alex Velez | IT Security Analyst | 646.350.9491 | |
Sravan Devidi | Report Writer | 215-554-0499 | |
Christopher Whitfield | Epic Beaker DI Analyst | 601.307.5393 | |
Cara Winston | Access Security Analyst | 469.880.9084 | |
Katelyn Wong | Recruiting Coordinator | 916.612.8252 | |
Jeremiah Wood | Senior Epic Advisor | 317.490.4679 | |
Katy Rollins | Epic Analyst | 615.877.3917 |