Many adult learners are either uncomfortable with or
don’t want to use the electronic tools necessary for online learning, according
to a report by the Pew Research Center. The study identified five stages ofdigital readiness among adult learners, grouping 52% of the respondents in a “relatively
hesitant” category when it comes to using digital tools in online learning.
“The analysis shows there are several distinct groups
of Americans who fall along a spectrum of digital readiness from relatively
more prepared to relatively hesitant,” wrote John B. Horrigan in DigitalReadiness Gap.
“Those who tend to be hesitant about embracing technology in learning are below
average on the measures of readiness, such as needing help with new electronic
gadgets or having difficulty determining whether online information is
trustworthy. Those whose profiles indicate a higher level of preparedness for
using tech in learning are collectively above average on measures of digital
readiness.”
The survey found that 33% of American adults are “reluctant
learners” when it comes to using electronic devices. Another 31% are considered
“cautious clickers” who are confident in their ability to use the tools, but
have no plans to take advantage of learning opportunities either online or
offline.
Of the relatively hesitant group, 5% are active learners
who simply prefer using traditional means of study and 14% are not prepared for
online learning in any form. Just 17% of the respondents consider themselves digitally
ready for online learning.
