Introduction

Adaptive learning, an educational approach that tailors the learning experience to individual learners' needs, is increasingly being implemented in adult training settings, including both corporate and higher education. This approach leverages technology to provide personalised learning paths, making it particularly effective for a diverse range of adult learners.

The Value of Adaptive Learning in Adult Training

Adaptive learning technologies have significantly improved the student experience and success in adult education settings. Colorado Technical University (CTU) serves as a prime example, having implemented adaptive learning strategies since 2012 to support a primarily nontraditional student body. Their experience illustrates that adaptive learning can effectively cater to a diverse range of professional and academic backgrounds, enhancing the overall learning experience.

Cognitive and Behavioural Theories in Adaptive Learning

1. Behaviourism: 

Behaviourism, emerging in the early 20th century, focuses on observable behaviour and external stimuli, emphasising how experiences controlled by the environment shape learning. This theory underpins adaptive learning by advocating for tailored experiences based on learners' interactions and responses.

2. Operant Conditioning: 

B.F. Skinner's operant conditioning, a subtype of behaviourism, links behaviour to its consequences, promoting behaviours that lead to positive outcomes. This principle is applied in adaptive learning by rewarding learners' progress and adjusting content based on their responses.

3. Social Cognitive Theory: 

Proposed by Albert Bandura, this theory highlights learning in a social context, involving the interplay of personal, environmental, and behavioural factors. Adaptive learning systems can leverage this by fostering collaborative learning environments and peer interactions.

4. Cognitive Development Theory: 

Jean Piaget's theory, focusing on mental processes and knowledge acquisition, supports adaptive learning by emphasising tailored content that aligns with learners' cognitive development stages.

    5. Self-Determination Theory (SDT): 

Adaptive learning supports Deci & Ryan's Self-Determination Theory by creating conditions that strengthen   autonomy, competence and relatedness. Learners can follow a path that suits their pace and goals, which reinforces autonomy. Tasks are calibrated to their current level, helping them build competence. When paired with timely support or feedback, the system also maintains a sense of relatedness. Together, these elements encourage intrinsic motivation and sustained engagement.

Authoring Tools for Adaptive Learning Experiences

Creating adaptive learning experiences requires specific authoring tools that enable customisation and interactivity. Notable tools in this domain include:

1. Articulate Storyline 360: A widely used tool that allows for the creation of customized learning paths and scenarios.

2. Adobe Captivate: Known for its advanced features, this tool is ideal for creating responsive and adaptive learning content.

Incorporating Branching Scenarios

Branching scenarios offer learners choices that lead to various learning paths. For insights into creating effective branching scenarios, Christy Tucker's website provides valuable resources. Her work emphasises realistic decision-making scenarios that mimic real-life challenges, enhancing the learning relevance and impact.

Conclusion

Adaptive learning is a transformative approach in adult education, offering personalised and compelling learning experiences. By integrating cognitive and behavioural theories, using specialised authoring tools, and incorporating branching scenarios, educators can deliver more engaging and targeted learning experiences. This approach is proving essential in meeting the diverse needs of adult learners in both corporate and higher education settings.

References

1. Adaptive Learning: Implementation, Scaling, and Lessons Learned - EDUCAUSE Review, [er.educause.edu](https://er.educause.edu/).

2. Behavioral and Cognitive Theories - Lifespan Development, [pressbooks.nscc.ca](https://pressbooks.nscc.ca/).

3. Top 16 E-Learning Authoring Tools for Engaging Content Creation - [scienceandliteracy.org](https://scienceandliteracy.org/best-e-learning-authoring-tools/).

4. Christy Tucker's insights on branching scenarios - [www.christytuckerlearning.com](https://www.christytuckerlearning.com/category/storytelling-scenarios/).