Adult Learning Explained | Origin: ED208
This is a general discussion forum for the following learning topic:
Adult Learning Theories --> Adult Learning Explained
Post what you've learned about this topic and how you intend to apply it. Feel free to post questions and comments too.
I have found that Roger's theory that adult learners need to immediately apply what they're leaning and also understand why they need to learn certain things to be absolutely true. I've experienced this in my on-the-job and periodic training. If I'm not told the "why" I will probably tune it out. If I don't see how I can use it in my job, I will likely tune it out.
I am a big believer in the adult learner wanting to know what is in it for them. I think when an adult learner goes back to school they have an idea of what they will get out of it. I try to always show how information is useful to an individual when I can. Students listen more when they know there is something in it for them
I believe Carl Rogers' approach to student-directed learning in a non-threatening environment is crucial for fostering engagement and independence. In my classroom, I encourage students to take control of their learning through hands-on activities like internships or service learning, where they learn by doing. By using self-evaluation and providing opportunities for direct interaction with real-world experiences, I help students assess their own progress and gain a deeper understanding of the material.
Knowles listed five basic assumptions to describe adult learners: have aided in developing how adult's learner conceptualize content in their learning environment, the relevancy, and application of content. Adult learners don't just want to obtain content, they often ask "why" which can lead to an instructor researching information and providing thorough explanations to lifelong learners. Additionally, Rogers mention of self-directed learning identifies the role andragogy plays in the student directed learning for adult learners.
That teaching adult is completely different than teaching children
Teaching adults you have to mindful that they are expecting to get results from the class for their future.
Comment on Richard Hamill's post: In dealing adult learner working on technical knowledge and skills development new material must be relatable to past experiences and backed with the Brain On- Hands On learning process.
Adult learners are motivated by internal not external factors, typically leaning is to be applied immediately.
According to Knowles, the adult learners hace very particular motivations ans expectations in their studies, so we need to take that in cosideration when teaching adults.
On the other hand, Rogers create focus hin analysis in the student and how he manage it's own learning. Being a great tool also to be consider in our classes
Adult learners like to have a say in what/how they learn.
I learned that adult learning is internally motivated.
This section offered Knowles Andragogy where students have a say in their learning. This perspective is taken one step further with Carl Rodgers in Experiencial Learning. Both of these pioneers support the need for strong participatory engagement in the classroom.
I will keep all these concepts in mind while teaching. Adult students need a little more time and the "why?" Of what we are doing.
I have learned that the foundations of adult learning can be traced back to 1968 when Knowles coined the term 'andragogy', which refers to a field of science that emphasizes helping adults and adult learning theories. Teachers can benefit from understanding Knowles' theory about adult learners and the five basic assumptions that can be made about adult learners: they bring with them many life experiences; their learning needs changes as their social roles change; they want to use their new-found knowledge immediately; they have internal motivators; and they want to be informed as to why material is being taught. Rogers was similar to Knowles because he believes adult learners need to learn in non-threatening environments. Rogers is known for his theories about having students learn by doing, which can include service learning and internships. Teachers of adult students should use this knowledge of these two educational pioneers to create meaningful lessons and assignments.
Try and understand experiences of students and how we can better relate the material to previous experiences.
Teaching adult learners involves hands on activities and reflection of the progress made. Incorporating physical actions along with theory helps the student learn. Involving the student in the coursework also supports the experience and outcome.
Malcome Knowles is the father of adult learning, he established the pillars of adult learning.
basically adult learners develope more intrinsically; need justification for an answer, and want to be able to apply learned skills quickly.
Carl Rodger is an advocate for student learning where students direct the learning process itself.
Knowles ideology resonates the most with me.
I really like what Knowles states when he says that adult learners are motivated by internal rather than external factors because they know what they really want and what they really need. External factors are important but do not define the person's interests.
