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In a recent discussion on, Skills-Universe, the question of encouraging ABET learners was brought up. Members, who are also, ABET professionals, offered good advice to deal with motivating adult learners. Here is a summary of that advice.

In order for ABET learners to realise the significance of the training, deeper issues need to be understood. A lack of basic education at a younger age often impacts on an adult learner's self-esteem and confidence levels.

An ABET professional therefore has to stimulate learners mentally and help them realise that this learning experience can change their earlier beliefs about themselves as well as their present circumstances.

 
An ABET facilitator must possess compassion and sincerity in their delivery of training in order to facilitate a change process for hisor her learners.

 
Integral to the success of ABET programmes, is commitment and support from management and leadership within an organisation. As one Skills-Universe member pointed out, it takes a fair amount of courage to join an ABET programme, so adult learners should be encouragedas far as possible.

 
An ABET facilitator should also explain the programme to learners at the outset so that they understand the learning process and the benefits of such courses. 

 
Learners will remain unmotivated if they are simply told to attend weekly training without being made aware of the opportunities that the training might create for them.

 
It is also important that learners are correctly placed through the ABET levels e.g. an adult learner with a matric certificate should not be placed at ABET level 1.

 
Furthermore, as the training progresses and learners improve, each achievement should be recognised. It is evident that an organisation that celebrates the success of its ABET programmes will encourage more participation on future programmes.