Digital Tools That Increase Academic Success For The Adult Learner Research Paper

Digital Tools That Increase Academic Success For The Adult Learner - Research Paper Example In laymans terms, a digital tool can be defined as computer software, hardware or internet-based systems that support the learning process. A study conducted by Power and Thomas (2007) aimed at investigating how the use of Information and Communication Technology (ICT) affects learning among teachers showed that laptops and handheld computers enhanced their professional development. In this study, Power and Thomas (2007) asserts that the respondents reported that continued use of these tools improved efficiency as they could study at a place and time of their convenience. These computers were fitted with other supporting tools that allowed them to take pictures to support their lessons, plan their lessons at home and subsequently transfer the course plans to school computers, and could also create audios for use in teaching (Power and Thomas, 2007). In this regard, digital tools enhance adult learning through ensuring easier planning of learning activities. Facebook, as a digital tool is important in adult learning as learners today connect with friends through social sites such as facebook and Blogger. Sara, an adult 18 year old college student cited by Bhatt (2012) affirmed the use Facebook to communicate with her classmates on issues associated with her course. Other digitals tools she asserts to use for support in learning for discussing with friends and classmates include her Gmail account and Blogs (Bhatt, 2012). Facebook, as a digital tool can also be used to communicate directly with other learners particularly through video links and can therefore be beneficial for sharing ideas, conducting discussions, and sharing posts relating to course materials. By supporting discussions, digitals tools enhance adult learning through information sharing. Communications and discussions relating to course materials in social sites are made possible by the internet. According to