Principles of Adult Learning to support effective instructional design

Malcolm Knowles adopted the term andragogy for adult learning theory. Andragogy provides a set of assumptions about how adults learn. Understanding adult learning principles can improve the educational experience for adult learners.

  • Adults need to be involved in the planning and evaluation of their instruction.
  • Experience (including mistakes) provides the basis for learning activities.
  • Adults are most interested in learning subjects that have immediate relevance to their job or personal life.
  • Adult learning is problem-centred rather than content-oriented.
LEARNING PRINCIPLEEXPLANATIONAPPLICATION
Self-directedLearning at one’s own pace in one’s wayHave learners set goals, involve learners in the planning and provide opportunities to self-evaluate
TransformationalLearning can change your perspective on the world and vice-versaProvide experiences to shift the learner’s perspective; new information becomes applied and retained.
ExperientialFocuses on developing life experience or “hands-on” learningParticipate physically in the learning environment and include reflection afterwards.
MentorshipLearning from an outside mentor (established figure) in a fieldConnect with mentors and take learning outside the classroom or the usual training environment. Apprenticeship and summer work experience are examples.
Orientation to (or of) learningAdults need to reframe their emotions and assumptions around the experience and value of learning.Adapt lessons to include real-world situations, which helps students retain information.
MotivationIn contrast to children that must attend school, adults often have internal motivation.Typically, adults have internalised motivation. Leverage this motivation by connecting to what learners need.
Readiness to learnAdults are fully developed and must rely on experience or life changes to build a renewed readiness to learn.Renew readiness to learn. Adults often need a situational trigger. What skills do learners need to master?
The above chart is adapted from The University of Phoenix (2022) at https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/adult-learning-theories-principles.html

References

Knowles, M. (1973). The adult learner: A neglected species. ERIC Document Reproduction Service No. ED084368.

The University of Phoenix. (2022). 7 adult learning theories and principles to enhance your education. https://www.phoenix.edu/blog/adult-learning-theories-principles.html

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