Teacher, training, tutor - Liz O'Rourke

The author sets out to stimulate debate over the relationships that should be encouraged between adults and those who help them learn, and, in so doing, help to transform that relationship into one that is more empowering for learners. Much modern training seems to be interested in technological wizardry than looking at the learning situation which most crucially influences the confidence and ultimately the success of most learners.;Adult learning is still permeated by unresolved issues around power and control, and, until these are confronted, learners will continue to be at risk of being patronized and even bullied. Liz O'Rourke builds on her own experience as trainer and teacher to present a review of the relationship between learner and teacher. She advocates the cherishing of innovation and challenge and believes that learners should be positively regarded in terms of their unfulfilled potential rather than their subordinate role under the un-challengeable "expert in charge".