Computer Assisted Adult Interactive Learning in a Multi-Cultural Environment

Abstract

With the declining cost and continued convergence of computing and communication technologies, and the availability of networked, computer multimedia communication, instruction supported by Web and e-mail interactive technology has been widely adopted by teaching and learning institutions. Adult learning often seems more consistent with the sort of peer learning and exchange that takes place outside formal education and training situations than within them. When more and more adults, who have been away from schooling for a Dong time, need to develop their knowledge or skills, the demands for adult learning increase. Computer multimedia and networking is regarded as an ideal supporting technology to meet the increasing demands for continuing adult education, but may cause a drastic change in the style of adult learning. This technology may or may not suit the learners' characteristics and their prior learning style. Most important, this change provides a more complex learning environment. For example, Pinhey (1998) stated that the Internet made possible a global education curriculum with various nations involved, so that understanding and tolerance of cultural differences is needed to reach a successful learning outcome. Besides more intercultural communication, there also will be more interactions among learners of different age levels during the learning process. These further considerations are prompting researchers to explore the effect of these factors on adult learning o…