Integrating Online Autodidacticism in Lifelong Learning for Adults in Sub-Saharan Africa

Jackline E. Mayende Kiwelu; Justina E. Ogbonna

Integrating Online Autodidacticism in Lifelong Learning for Adults in Sub-Saharan Africa

Abstract: Education is a lifelong journey that should be continuous even in adulthood. Lifelong learning has the potential to spur innovation, creativity, and problem-solving in society for an improved life. To achieve this, there is a need to integrate the concept of self-directed learning into lifelong learning and adult education curriculum at all levels. Many researchers have proved the important place of autodidacticism in the realization of the objectives of adult education and lifelong learning. This concept has been variously spoken and practiced in most parts of the developed world, but unfortunately seldom talked about and applied in the adult education system of Sub-Saharan Africa. Adult education in this region is still heavily lean to conventional education and pedagogy systems. The main objective of this paper is to present a holistic view of autodidacticism and its relevance in lifelong learning and adult education in this global and knowledge economy. The exploratory study examined the influence of online autodidacticism on lifelong learning among adults in Sub-Saharan Africa. Interviews were conducted using WhatsApp to elicit answers from adult respondents. The paper provides insight into the possibility of applying online autodidacticism delivery for originating a new instructional paradigm that makes a shift possible from the traditional practice of teaching in adult education in Sub-Saharan Africa and success stories of interviewees who acquired new skills through autodidacticism

JASIC Volume. 1, Issue 1 (2020)

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Integrating Online Autodidacticism in Lifelong Learning for Adults in Sub-Saharan Africa