Adult Learning Theory

The art and science of teaching children

The art and science of teaching adults

1. Need to know 2.

Self-concept 3. Experience 4. Readiness to learn 5. Orientation to learn 6. Motivation to learn

Learner needs to understand "why" something is important before he or she will be ready to learn.

Adult learners want a return on investment, so they need to understand the value of learning something.

The learner is independent & self-directed.

Adult learners are used to making their own decisions, and want to continue to do so in their learning.

The learner possesses a vast set of experiences, which act as the foundation for learning.

Adult learners can use past experiences to add context to learning.

Learning must be relevant, and is often best conducted when the learner is in a transitional stage regarding his or her social role.

Adult learners are most receptive to learning when they are moving from one role to another.

The learner is a problem solver who learns best in the context of real-world situations that are immediately applicable.

Adult learners are practical and are looking to solve real-world problems, and want to be able to directly apply new information.

The learner is motivated by primarily internal factors.

Adult learners are driven by their values, beliefs, and opinions.

Malcolm Knowles