Adult Learners

Cordelia Callaway

1. Move from dependency to self-directedness

2. Draw upon their reservoir of experience for learning

3. Are ready to learn when they assume new roles

4. Want to solve problems and apply new knowledge immediately

5. Motivation to learn*The Modern Practice of Adult Education by Dr. Malcolm S.

Knowles

Cordelia Drew Callaway 2

An adult’s self-concept moves from being a dependent personality toward one of being a self-directed human being

An adult accumulates a growing reservoir of experience that becomes an increasing resource for learning

An adult’s readiness to learn becomes more oriented to the developmental tasks of his/her social roles

An adult’s perspective of time changes from one of postponed application of knowledge to immediate application

As a person matures the motivation to learn comes from within

Offer training and development programs that engage the learner from a practical standpoint

Provide courses and programs that offer the learner knowledge, tools, and skills they can immediately put to use

NEVER lecture to adult learners Focus on active learning

techniques that engage learners with each other through discussion, activities, and exercises

Recognize the value of an adult’s life experience as a knowledge reservoir

Provide appropriate support for online learning, webcasts, teleconferencing, and SKYPE

Access the knowledge of learners as SMEs (subject matter experts) in the design and development of training when appropriate

Clearly communicate the business or developmental need for training and the WIIFM—”What’s In It For Me?”

Adult learners are eager to learn and have a keen desire to put new knowledge to use immediately if they are appropriately engaged in training

What questions do you have for me?

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