THE NEED FOR INTEGRATING SCIENCE AND TECHNOLOGY INTO ADULT LEARNING AND EDUCATION

Abstract

The need for every adult to acquire education at any level or age, upgrade and update their knowledge, skills and capabilities in a science and technology driven world stresses the importance of incorporating science and technology into adult learning and education programmes for relevance, usability of skills and self-reliance. This study therefore, discusses roles of science and technology in the globalised knowledge economy. It highlights the problems confronting science and technology education in congruence with adult learning and education to include; prior learning experience, wide technological divides, accessibility and flexibility modules, inadequate experiential learning, inadequate supportive self-directed learning, outdated curriculum and lack of qualified instructors. To balance theory with practical, global best practices were explored. This study therefore seeks integration of science and technology into adult learning and education programmes, to allow adult learners participate and explore the science and technology driven world economy. Based on these, a number of recommendations were made, which rested majorly on the inclusion of science and technology into adult learning and education curriculum with the aim, to make adult education more adaptable, practical, and aligned with current technological advancements, ensuring adult learners participation in the growth of science and technology driven world.