Emerging technologies are shaping the future of the education system. Fortunately for modern learners, new useful tools appear every day. Various devices and software facilitate the studying process and help students to master essential skills faster than ever before.

Particularly, the latest technologies help to improve the literacy skills of adults. If you want to know how innovations in this niche work, just keep reading.

Power of Gamification

One of the most significant issues faced by adult learners is the “can’t do” barrier. Learners complain that they can’t memorize new words, can’t learn new rules, and can’t remember what they have studied in the past. This is a huge psychological obstacle that prevents students from advancing.

Sadly, many people still believe in the stereotype that only kids and young adults can learn fast and efficiently. For this reason, adult learners find it challenging to stop using excuses and start learning. Gamification is a great solution to help overcome this psychological barrier.

Both kids and adults prefer to learn by playing. Short, funny quizzes, crosswords, and online games help learners memorize new information much faster. 
Take a look at this simple game, where a player must guess a word before balloon explodes. This is an example of how learners can use games to increase their vocabulary without experiencing any psychological discomfort.

Screenshot source: http://www.literacytools.ie/games.cfm 

ELearning significantly improves literacy skills. Today, adult learners get extended access to online libraries, course materials, blackboards, and other learning resources. Those students who cannot participate in a local literacy program can choose online courses and study from home.

“In the digital age, adult learners can get support from professional teachers 24/7,” says James Daily, head of the content department of FlashEssay. “It helps students to manage their daytime and balance work, study, and family life.” 

Moreover, modern adult learners have access to word processing tools, which help improve writing skills and facilitate the editing process. Specialized software helps to define and correct common grammar mistakes. Technologies allow adults to feel more confident in writing—people overcome a fear of making errors and, consequently, advance in mastering literacy skills.

“It’s a great idea to offer adult learners the opportunity to start writing about their hobbies and things they truly love,” says Melanie Fitzgerald, a writer for ResumesCentre. “It will encourage them to read a lot and to write a lot to craft remarkable blog posts on a regular basis.”

Screenshot source: http://knitsbysue.blogspot.com/p/about-me-mine.html

Improved Collaboration and Communication 

The latest technology allows adult learners to communicate online with each other. Today, students use the virtual learning environment Blackboard to start threads of conversation, as well as share comments and additional documents. Moreover, modern students can participate in virtual meetings by sharing textual messages, jointly editing one text file, reviewing classmates’ work, etc.

Communication is crucial for literacy skills improvement. “When adult learners have the opportunity to share their thoughts, fears, and dreams with peers, they feel more comfortable and stay motivated,” explains Pat Fredshaw, a content editor at EssaySupply. Communication is a key to learners’ engagement.

In Conclusion