Theories of Adult Development | Origin: ED208
This is a general discussion forum for the following learning topic:
Adult Learning Theories --> Theories of Adult Development
Post what you've learned about this topic and how you intend to apply it. Feel free to post questions and comments too.
All three of the theories appear to have some validity, but I was especially drawn to Havinhurst's. I like that it has ranges of time that a person might actually use as a guide to measure progress.
Seems like the adult learning lifespan has some similarities to the regular human lifespan. Taking that into account with your students would be worthwhile to recognize.
I believe Havighurst’s theory of human development highlights that life is made up of a series of tasks we must complete within certain age ranges to feel successful and content. In the classroom, this theory can be applied by recognizing that students are at different stages of development and may be working through specific tasks, such as gaining emotional independence or preparing for their careers. If students fail to achieve these tasks on time, they may struggle with motivation or adapting to new challenges. As a teacher, understanding these developmental stages allows me to support students in reaching their goals, fostering personal growth, and helping them navigate life changes both in and outside the classroom.
The varying viewpoints of each theorist are interesting. Havighurst perspective is relevant and relatable today as adults often compare themselves to others when it comes to education and success.
I learned about concerning specific theories of adult development and how to create a safe and secure environment.
Ages 16-23
Achieve emotional independence.
Prepare for marriage and family.
Choose and prepare for a career.
Develop an ethical system.
Ages 23-35
Decide on a partner.
Start a family.
Manage a home.
Start an occupation.
Assume civic responsibility.
Ages 35-45
Adapt to a changing time perspective.
Revise career plans.
Redefine family relationships.
Ages 45-57
Maintain a career or develop a new one.
Re-establish family relationships.
Make mature civic contributions.
Adjust to biological change.
Ages 57-65
Prepare for retirement.
Ages 65+
Adjust to retirement.
Adjust to declining health and strength.
Become affiliated with late-adult age groups.
Establish satisfactory living arrangements.
Adjust to the death of a spouse.
Maintain integrity.
Comment on Richard Hamill's post: I had several I get it moments. As I looked at the various age groups and what would be happening in most peoples lives I can say I have traveled through those groups and changes. Makes sense why interest is lost in the past tasks and what to expect in the upcoming age brackets.
So as the student ages, their outlook changes on their motivation. Some say that these "crisis" should be resolved in a specific timeframe in order to be happy
It's never too late for adult learners to ignite a passion for knowledge! Inspired by Malcolm Knowles' principles of adult education, we encourage you to take control of your learning journey. Engage with material that resonates with your experiences, apply it practically, and learn at your own pace.
The theories reflect the opportunity for instructors to understand how adult learners can process information. I find it very useful when preparing lesson plans and activities.
All three theories are related to the changes in the personality and personal development according to the age of the people. It was important to see the big changes that we need to face in our lifes and how we have to manage them
While I believe the idea that a person may only be successful within their age group based on the given set of standards Havighurst suggests to be outdated, I appreciated seeing the model and his point of view.
I have gained more insight into adult learning and development.
I found that the synergy of the three theorists Erickson Levinson and Havighurst all brought clarity to human development in their own unique perspective
Many different stages in life and also many ways to look at life. I think that It is important to be flexible as we never know where someone is in life and we may need to adjust our teaching style.
I have learned that adult development occurs in different ways. Erickson believes that personal development occurs in a series of psycho-social stages and should occur within a specific time frame. Levinson also believes that development occurs in stages, but the biggest contrast with Erickson is that these stages are determined by chronological age. Lastly, Havighurst views human development as a series of tasks that occur during different age ranges or time frames. These three psychologists offer similar theories as to what motivates students. Teachers of different age groups will benefit from understanding the importance of reaching various stages of development and understanding how to help students who were not able to surpass the milestones.
Erikson's stages of development have guided me the most in my career. Humans and human nature is pretty consistent. I disagree with my peers here that state Havighurst's needs to be updated due to societal changes. The age ranges are broad and many people will still fall into them accordingly, even with the changes in society. I believe some of my peers are judging his timeline based on their own personal opinions vs the majority.
Havighurst theories and age ranges seem a little outdated.
I love Erikson and as a teacher I can tell that the different stages reflect what the person is really able to do.
