The major difference between the training sessions was the inclusion of relevance so that trainees understood the program's objectives. They were made aware of gaps in their knowledge-where they are versus where they need to be-which should be a goal in every training session. Explaining how the training will help the participants encourages engagement. This limited study also suggests that dialogue is instrumental in successful adult learning and application. Incorporating adult learning theory and practices into workplace training is compelling when compared to incurring the cost of even one injury or fatality. A safe work environment should be the goal of every organization and the adoption of andra-gogic concepts can support this objective. This project showed the contribution to be gained by incorporating adult learning principles and focusing on the value of safety and the relevance to the trainees' well-being. When adults participate in the content and understand the training, they are more likely to engage in the process and transfer the training concepts to their daily work routines. The principles of adult learning should be applied to safety training and in an effort to attain the best working environment for all employees. "Adult learning takes place in context, where tools and the context intersect with interaction among people" (Merriam, 2001, p. 43). Andragogy is relevant in safety training because minimizing even one error could prevent permanent damage. Each year, more than 40 million adults participate in educational activities including safety sessions. Effective training is an important competitive differentiator and those companies that focus on adult education may benefit financially. To address the impending shortage of skilled workers, engaging adults through relevant training will help mitigate these deficiencies. As the Chinese proverb says, "Fish for me and I eat today. Teach me to fish and I eat forever."
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