1. Engaging the Adult Learner: One Size Does Not Fit All
Diane Grantham
National Trainer, XAP Corporation
Craig Bass
Confidential. Not for distribution or duplication without prior consent from Xap Corporation. © 2010 Xap Corporation

2. Objectives Participants will:
Understand the unique needs of the adult learner
Explore XAP products that are geared to the adult population
Engage in a discussion about the issues affecting adult learners

3. Adult Learners vs. Youth Learners
Shorter time with the professional
Often a single visit
More immediate need for career assistance (often because of a specific life-changing event)
More difficulty using software – often lack computer knowledge and skills
Participation in career assistance and learning is usually voluntary
Adults expect to be treated as adults and have resources specifically for adults

4. Adult Learner Characteristics
Experience
Maturity
Judgment
Established values, beliefs, and opinions
Need to feel self-directed
Have a problem centered approach to learning
Have increased variation in learning styles (individual differences among people increase with age)
Ability to relate to the realities of the work world

5. Choices Planner CT Resources
Available from the Resources link on the Your Tools page
Supports work in either a group setting or on an individual basis.
Activities bring to life and integrate the knowledge that clients have learned through their experience with Choices® Planner CT.
Supplemental activities provide concrete ways to work with clients to explore topics that are integral to a successful career campaign.
Activities will support a continued dialogue around ongoing career transition topics.

6. Choices Planner CT Resources
Available from the Resources link on the Your Tools Page
Quick Start Guide
Features in Choices Planner CT
Work History
Your Job Search Activities
Job Finder
Resume Builder
Cover Letter Creator
Job Interview Practice
Thank You Letter Builder
National Job Banks
State Job Banks

7. Customized Training Resources
Guided Practice for Professional – Part 1
Career Activity
Career Comparison
Getting Ready for Work
Job Finder
Guideways (optional)
Guided Practice for Professionals – Part 2
College Activity
Programs/Majors and Colleges Activity
Financial Aid Activity
Professional Tools Guided Practice
Reviewer
Reporter
Tracker
Resource Library

8. And Now . . .

9. Professional Center Resources
Available from the Resources tab on the Professional Center
Supports work in either a group setting or on an individual basis.
Activities bring to life and integrate the knowledge that clients have learned through their experience.
Supplemental activities provide concrete ways to work with clients to explore topics that are integral to a successful career campaign.
Activities will support a continued dialogue around ongoing career transition topics.

10. Resources for the Adult on the Client Site
Features on the client site that are oriented towards the adult learner:
Resume Builder
Cover Letter Creator
Job Interview Practice
Thank You Letter Builder
Insider Info – Expert Advice
National Job Banks –
Career Builder
Employment Guide
Job Central
Monster
Yahoo Hot Jobs
State Job Banks

11. Customized Training Resources
Guided Practice for Professional – Part 1
Career Activity
Career Comparison
Getting Ready for Work
Guided Practice for Professionals – Part 2
College Activity
Programs/Majors and Colleges Activity
Financial Aid Activity
Professional Center Guided Practice
Group Builder
Reports
Milestones Tracking
Resources

12. Group Sharing
What are the successes you have had around training professionals who work with adult learners?
What are the problems/obstacles you have had around training professionals who work with adult learners?
What do you suggest as possible training solutions?

13. Thank You!
We would like to take this opportunity to thank you again for the work you do every day, and for the interest and participation you have shown during today’s session.
Diane & Craig