Paper Title
Exploring the Online Teaching Practices and Professional Growth Patterns of Active Aging Learning Center Teachers in Taiwan
Abstract
In this qualitative study, semi structured in-depth interviews were conducted with 11 teachers from active aging learning centers in Taiwan who transitioned to online teaching settings during the COVID-19 pandemic. The objective was to explore their learning experiences and professional growth during this transition. The results indicated that the majority of teachers initially lacked experience in online instruction. Although they believed that offering online courses can help older learners continue their educational journey, they also expressed concerns regarding digital literacy and older learners’ unfamiliarity with online platforms. To create an engaging online environment, the teachers invested major effort in setting up equipment, selecting suitable platforms, streamlining educational content, and modifying teaching materials by, for example, enlarging font sizes, incorporating interactive activities, and providing clear explanations. In addition, they attempted to enhance their digital teaching competencies by watching instructional videos, taking online courses, and engaging in peer collaboration. They also adopted strategies such as reflective practice and feedback collection from older adults to improve their teaching practices. Most of themexhibited a change in their attitude and an increase in their digital confidence, which in turn increased their capacity to design online courses and utilize digital tools such asartificial intelligence and interactive software. Some teachers further extended these skills to in-person teaching practices or to personal YouTube channels, indicating their capacity for instructional innovation and continual professional development. Overall, this study serves as a valuable reference for the future planning of teacher training and digital transformation strategies in older adult educational institutions.
Keywords - Older Adult Education, Older Adult Educator, Online Teaching, Professional Growth