Five years ago, the start of the COVID-19 pandemic forced every sector to adapt, and adult education was no exception. As lockdowns and social distancing measures took hold, literacy organizations and community groups across Canada had to pivot rapidly, embracing new technologies and approaches to keep learners engaged.
With video conferencing software as the primary distance education tool, adults needed an additional skillset – and reliable Internet – to continue learning. For some adult learners, non-academic needs – like coping with stress, health issues and leading their children’s education – took precedence over their own learning.
Although the pandemic introduced new challenges, many adults saw it as an opportunity to enhance their knowledge and skills. With more time spent at home, adults could take advantage of these programs, which also became accessible to those previously limited by geographical barriers.
While these changes to learning were initially reactive, many have now become permanent features of adult education. The pandemic sped up changes in how adult learners accessed education, leading to a sector that is more flexible, accessible and responsive to the needs of working adults, newcomers and lifelong learners.
The start of the COVID-19 pandemic is now five years behind us, but it’s had a lasting impact on adult education programs globally. We take a look at how this life-altering global event changed the adult learning sector.
Expansion of online and hybrid learning
One of the most significant and lasting changes in adult education has been the widespread adoption of online and hybrid learning models. Before the pandemic, many adult education programs were delivered in person, often requiring learners to attend classes at specific times and locations. When lockdowns forced programs to move online, both educators and learners had to adapt quickly.
Post-pandemic, online and hybrid models remain a staple. Most programs now offer a mix of virtual and in-person options, providing more flexibility for working professionals, parents and those living in remote or rural areas. This shift has made adult education more accessible than ever, allowing learners to complete programs on their own schedules and at their own pace.
Increased use of digital tools and education technology
The pandemic integrated more technology into adult education, with video conferencing platforms, social media apps and Learning Management Systems taking the front seat. Tools such as Zoom, Google Classroom and Microsoft Teams are now standard practice in facilitating online learning.
Additionally, many adult education programs incorporated asynchronous learning options which allowed learners to access materials at their convenience. For example, the ABC Skills Hub, which offers free online courses of ABC Life Literacy Canada’s many adult literacy programs, is widely used by community groups across the country. Learners can complete courses at their own pace, save their work in progress, and download course content and helpful reminders of what they’ve learned.
This technological shift has not only enhanced the learning experience but has also allowed community groups to reach a broader audience, including those who may not have had access to traditional classroom settings.
Increased focus on digital literacy
While the shift to online learning was necessary, it also uncovered a major challenge: many adult learners lacked the digital literacy skills needed to navigate these new platforms. In response, literacy groups included more digital literacy training in their programming. Knowing how to access the Internet, using video conferencing software like Zoom and downloading online learning materials became crucial skills.
This focus on digital literacy has had a lasting impact, ensuring that more Canadians—particularly older adults and newcomers—are equipped with the skills needed to participate in an increasingly digital world.
ABC Connect for Learning is one such program that addresses the digital literacy skills gap. The program offers various resources to suit one’s comfort level and experience. Whether someone is just getting started with the Internet or wants to learn about new technology, ABC Connect for Learning offers something for everyone looking to improve their digital literacy skills.
More flexible learning models
Prior to the pandemic, many organizations offered flexible in-person learning opportunities during times that worked best for leaners and outside of workhours. Today, many programs offer self-paced courses, evening and weekend classes, and hybrid models that allow students to choose between in-person and online attendance. This flexibility has made education more inclusive, enabling a wider range of learners to upskill and reskill without disrupting their personal and professional responsibilities.
Broader access to upskilling and reskilling programs
The pandemic triggered significant shifts in the job market, with many Canadians facing job losses, career changes or the need to adapt to new industries. In response, the federal government invested in increasing access to upskilling and reskilling programs.
Skills for Success was launched in 2021 to help Canadians improve their foundational skills so they could find and keep good jobs. The program provided funding to organizations to provide tools, resources and training to Canadians of all ages and at all skill levels.
Provincial governments have provided funding for adult learners to acquire new skills in high-demand sectors like healthcare, technology and skilled trades.
Stronger focus on equity and inclusion
The pandemic highlighted inequalities in education, particularly for marginalized communities, rural populations and low-income individuals. Many Canadians struggled with access to reliable Internet, digital devices and the skills to navigate life online. In response, governments and organizations took steps to bridge the digital divide by expanding Internet services and providing learners with computers.
These efforts have led to a greater commitment to equity and inclusion in adult education, ensuring that learning opportunities are accessible to all Canadians, regardless of socioeconomic status.
Greater recognition of the importance of lifelong learning
Perhaps one of the biggest shifts brought about by the pandemic is the growing recognition of lifelong learning as a necessity rather than an option. Employers, governments and educational institutions now acknowledge that continuous learning is essential for adapting to an evolving economy.
In Canada, this has led to increased government support for adult education initiatives, employer-sponsored training programs, and a cultural shift towards valuing ongoing professional development. With industries constantly changing, the ability to learn and adapt has become a critical skill for workers of all ages.
Conclusion
The COVID-19 pandemic forced rapid changes in adult education, many of which have become permanent. As technology continues to evolve, organizations must find ways to enhance digital learning while maintaining strong community connections. The shift toward lifelong learning means education will no longer be confined to traditional classrooms but will instead become an ongoing journey that supports individuals at every stage of their careers and lives. By fostering accessible, flexible and responsive education models, Canada can build a workforce that is resilient, skilled and prepared for the challenges of the future.
