The Complete Guide to Adult Learning Theory: Knowles' Principles & More

Do you know that saying that you are learning something new each day? Well, it's true! It's never too late to learn about new subjects as well as you're never too old to begin using the brain power of yours.

Learners come throughout the years and comes in many shapes and shapes. People often assume that you must be young to acquire different skills, or that it's too for them to attend school once you reach late into adulthood.

The truth is that this isn't true! Although adults might learn and process information differently than children do, it doesn't mean they're set in their ways and should not use the active portion of their brains.

We'll introduce you to adult learning theory. It is a set of guidelines and principles that support the practice of adult learning.

Also known as andragogy, this method of learning is beneficial for adults, that are self-directed learners. It is the reverse of pedagogy, which translates to "leading children." It is the teaching of children, or dependent individuals. Andragogy is a method of facilitating the learning process for adults who are much more autonomous.

The idea was coined in the 1960s by Malcolm Knowles, an American educator in the 60's. Knowles used the word "andragogy" as a reference to adult education.

The goal of adult learning theory is to inspire adult learners to learn according to their needs and learning styles.

On this post, we'll discuss the fundamental principles behind the adult learning theory, and how this can translate into your own life or the teaching of adults

•         The importance of adult learning theories
•         Malcolm Knowles' adult studying theory      
•             Five assumptions that adult learners make
•         Additional theories about adult learning      
•             Transformative theory of learning
•             Theory of experiential learning
•             Theory of self-directed learning
•             Theorem of Project-Based Learning
•             The theory of action learning
•             The theory of collaboration in learning
•         The challenges of adult learning theories
•         Adult principles of learning
•         Adult learning applications theoretic      
•             Adult education programs
•             Corporate Training programs
•             Learning environments for online learning
•         Conclusion      
•             Future directions for adult learning theory research and application

The significance of adult learning theory The importance of adult learning theory

What, you might think, is adult learning theory important?

It is easy to forget that we are constantly learning new things, and that you don't have to be an elementary school student to be a student. There are however, some fundamental differences in the way you learn as an adult and learning as an adult to take into consideration...

Children in schools have continuous direction and structure to their learning. They are at school for the majority time learning what is taught by their teacher. Learning new concepts is a challenge for them, most adults don't enjoy the same discipline to their learning that can cause an even more difficult task.

Adults are keen to understand exactly what they should be learning and how it will benefit their lives. Adults' time is more important than the time of children as they have more responsibilities including the responsibility of their own children that they must manage. In order to retain knowledge adults should be aware of the importance as well as the relevance of their education.

Malcolm Knowles' adult theories of learning Malcolm Knowles' adult learning theory

Five assumptions about adult learners

The following are five fundamental assumption that form the basis of Malcolm Knowles' adult learning theory. They describe the characteristics of adult learners:

    Self-concept    

The basic assumption behind Knowles theories is that as people mature into adulthood, they automatically develop more self-directed and independent than when they were children.

Adults are looking for greater control and have more say over how and when they learn. Adults are often aware of the best way to learn for themselves when it comes to their learning preferences.

That's why a variety of types of learning environments and practices have been introduced for learning, including eLearning via mobile devices. Learning tools like this have allowed learners the freedom to learn when they want and when they'd like to. Since adults lead more hectic lives than kids, and often don't have a set time each day to study, learning tools like eLearning let adults have the flexibility to study when it's most beneficial and efficient for their needs.

Learning as an adult automatically takes on a more self-directed process, because adults require little guidance or supervision as kids do. The reason for this is that, when you are learning in adulthood you are more likely that you're eager to study or are fascinated by the subject or learning a particular thing can be beneficial to your job or career.

    Adult learner experience    

The other assumption Knowles has made concerns learning experiences for learners. As an adult, you have had the privilege of experiencing more of what the world can offer than children do and therefore have different perspectives and inherent wisdom to use in your you are learning.

The children don't have previous experience to draw upon since they're young, and are learning new something for the first time. Adults have plenty of knowledge available because each person has their own personal experiences which have brought them to the point they are at today. It could be a result of experiences from past education, jobs as well as life events which give you a unique perspective.

Humans constantly absorb information and knowledge in whatever situation we are in. That makes the process of learning adult special because no one has ever started out exactly with the same knowledge. The children have very little experience to rely on as they are so young, whereas adults are coming from a variety of different spheres of life. Depending on your life experiences, you could find learning something new to be much simpler or more difficult as compared to the person who is next you.

    Learner readiness    

One of the major distinctions between teachers of adults and children is Knowles the third assumption which is the readiness to learn from adults.

In most places, it is mandatory that children attend school every day and continue to learn until they are able to graduate. The school experience can be like... something more an obligation than viewed as enjoyable. Adults do not follow the same system of education as kids that makes their ability to study a bit different.

Adult learners are much more selective about the information they consume, and so when they learn something completely new, it's likely to be beneficial in a way.

There's a reason adults are eager to learn as they reach a certain age (although some may like to explore new subjects to have fun and pleasure), and it often is geared towards advancement and development of the personal and professional life of their. Often, companies will instruct their employees, and adult workers are required to study through programs that are applicable to their job. When adults can perceive the bright light in the tunnel (such as a promotion increase, raise or other career advancement) this makes them more eager to learn the details that they must learn the expectations of their employers.

    Learning orientation    

Knowles' fourth assumption is adult learner orientation, which focuses on learning skills that can be applied on the actual life.

When children learn things in school at a young stage, they usually do it through subject-based learning, which is the idea of just knowing something about it. The fourth assumption is that adults tend to veer toward problem-based learning. This is focused on the knowledge which directly connects to solving problems.

As adults, we show enthusiasm towards learning things that are applicable to our everyday lives, rather than merely memorizing facts on a subject. It's better for the long-term objectives of functioning adults in society to learn and develop skill sets that help us with solving issues.

The use of real-life scenarios and examples as well as scenario-based learning is more challenging for children to grasp at a young age. Adults are different as this type of learning is much more valuable for them since learning relevant problem-solving abilities can be a great way to be a great way to engage adults and help their performance at their jobs.

    Motivation to learn    

The last assumption Knowles made concerns learning motivation for adults.

There is a huge divergence in desire to learn in children versus adults. Children have many various influences throughout their lives that push them to learn and focus. They have multiple motivators, such as parents, teachers, school deadlines, as well as the general demand for higher education. Adults don't have many of these same factors to motivate them to learn.

Children have numerous external motivations and external motivators that they don't even need to think too long about what is pushing them to learn. On the other hand internally motivated motivation is the biggest factor that motivates adults to learn. These internal motivation factors can be any of the following: your work or profession, personal goals, situations in your life or even life circumstances. They are also specific to every adult.

Adults should understand what their internal motivation is when they are seeking out more learning, since this is the reason behind learning as an adult. It is the basis of the learning experiences you experience as an adult.

Additional theories about adult learning

There are several additional theories on adult learning, as well as the five fundamental theories that comprise Malcolm Knowles' adult learning theory.

Transformative Learning Theory

Transformative theory of learning is founded on the notion that, after your personal experiences, modifications to the way you view things, beliefs, and assumptions will affect how you interpret new information.

This theory targets a growth mindset and seeks for learners to change their existing frames of reference by utilizing a method of problem solving as well as procedural activities, along with reflective self-reflection.

Transformative theory of learning challenges current beliefs and works with intricate analytical techniques. It is characterized by a significant amount of self-examination and can teach adult learners to be more independent, critical and accountable when making decisions.

The human body can overcome challenges that arise from adapting to a changing environment, changes in the workplace, career shifting, and adapting to transition points during life's journey by transforming their learning.

Experiential learning theory

According to Knowles' theory on the relationship between orientation and learning that adults are drawn to learning that directly addresses problems. Experiential learning theory is a part of orientation to learning theory as the principle is based on establishing a "hands-on" method of learning.

Experiential learning theory examines how real-world experience impacts your learning. The majority of adults wish to apply their understanding on their own physical surroundings and then reflect on what worked and doesn't work afterwards.

The theory is based on the notion that adults remember information best when directly applying their knowledge in a practical area of their life.

Theory of self-directed learning Theorie of self-directed learning

Self-directed learning theory also goes in conjunction with Knowles' theory on self-concept. He also explains how many adults can be completely independent.

This theory narrows in to the concept of independence and self-concept. It implements learning concepts with a totally self-taught approach that is learning at a personal speed and at one's own pace.

Self-directed learning theory is not appropriate for everyone, as some people may need more guidance or interaction with others with regards to their education. This theory is for those responsible adults to practice who can efficiently self-evaluate their learning requirements and objectives. These types of learners tend to be very disciplined and have no issues focusing or paying attention to what must be completed.

Project-based theory of learning

Project-based theory of learning is similar to theories of experiential learning in that it's a "hands-on" technique. Using this theory, adults learn through overseeing the project and managing it. The students are required to study a real-life situation for longer periods, similar to the case study.

With this method of learning theory, adults learn crucial communication and collaborative capabilities with people around them, also working on their critical thinking and problem-solving skills.

This approach employs real-life situations that are engaging and stimulating to create an actual, challenging situation to mimic what learners would require to apply their learning to in real life.

Action learning theory

Theory of Action Learning can be described as a combination of all these theories. The theory allows learners to be active by acquiring data and collaborating in a collaborative environment. find a solution to an issue or situation.

Business simulations can be a good example of the theory of action learning, in which students are expected to take on multiple management roles to solve a problem.

Adults must think about the outcomes of their choices, and learn from experience under pressure. The goal of this theories is filling in these knowledge gaps and develop crucial team-building abilities.

Theory of collaborative learning

The goal of this model of learning is to direct learners to expand their understanding through group-based learning. Collaborative learning theory involves the development of higher-level thinking, oral communication as well as self-management and leadership abilities.

Adult learning can be more independent than learning as a child can be, there are numerous scenarios in which adults benefit from studying in a group. This is most evident when it comes to work environments, where adults may be assigned to groups of people for work.

Collaborative learning theory helps individuals working together to resolve questions of conceptual understanding. This theory is also applicable for online learning, and can help people establish connections virtually.

Adult learning challenges theories

There are many ways or motives adults might want to explore further education. This could be done in a traditional college or university setting, by taking skill-based courses to advance in the workplace, for self-improvement, or simply to have fun exploring a subject on your own.

There are a myriad of options for adults to pursue more learning possibilities, it's not to suggest that learning an adult doesn't come with the same set of difficulties.

A few challenges for an adult learner include:

• This is the perfect time to set aside for dedicating yourself to learning
• Inability to receive support from other people (emotionally as well as financially)
• The financial burdens of pursuing higher education
• Self-doubt or the lack of confidence to learn in adulthood
• Relearning habits from the past and becoming more flexible

These barriers may provide more of an obstacle for adults to overcome in achieving their goals in education.

The principles of adult education Principles of adult learning

Adult education is everywhere us, which is why it is so important to know the most effective methods and principles for education for adult learners.

• Create a positive learning environment that makes people excited and eager to go to (remember that nobody has a right to force adults into attending schools or lessons). Involving adult learners is similar to engaging students of any age - make your course as interesting as possible.
• Make sure you are able to apply the information being studied. This is why adults like engaging in hands-on learning, problem-solving and solving... since they need to apply this skills to their jobs or their personal lives shortly afterward.
• Encourage active participation to ensure your students retain the knowledge. For self-directed classes be sure that you have the opportunity to get involved with your students in any kind of learning environment they may be involved in.
• Offer assessments to measure learning outcomes. It is the most effective method to make sure everybody is getting the information. Assessments can also be a great way to gauge what adults have learned from their previous experience.

Adult Learning Applications theory

Adults aren't given the same quantity of time to study as kids do and adults are typically juggling many responsibilities along with the craziness associated with... simply being an adult! So, how we learn might be slightly different from how kids typically are taught in the classroom with a teacher.

These are the most of the most common methods adults use to expand their knowledge:

Adult education programs

Adult education courses are an umbrella term used to describe any kind of further education individuals would like to explore. These could be a GED and a degree that is specialized, an apprenticeship program or military education, postsecondary school, and independent studies.

While these programs often have some structure but it's not the same as being in school every day and learning as a child.

Corporate Training programs

One of the most common ways for adults to are learning is to advance their career by participating in corporate training programs. Seminars, workshops and conferences comprise a lot of corporate training programs and also particular case studies that provide an interactive approach.

Adults learn specifically about the company they represent through the corporate training program since companies wish to ensure that everyone is competent and knowledgeable to be successful in the job they're within.

Online learning environments

Online learning spaces are a bit more niche than adult education programs in that these learning environments typically are entirely virtual and last for shorter periods.

Conclusion

Future direction for Adult Learning Theory research as well as practice

The major difference between instructing adult learners and children is the fact that adults are self-directed learners. Adult learning theory is to inspire adult learners to learn using methods that meet their needs and learning styles.

There are many different theories about what adults are learning today. From the five main theories that comprise Malcolm Knowles' adult learning theory to the various theories we uncovered - it's now clear that there's not a single or correct way to tackle the different aspects and difficulties that adult learners face.

The understanding we have of adult learning has shifted throughout the years. future directions for adult education theorizing and teaching will continue to evolve as technology advances and changes the requirements of adult learners.

If you find yourself having adult students, bear in mind that it's okay to test out the various adult learning theories and different methods until you find what works most effectively for the older children. Remember that adults are highly independent, and what is effective for one student may not be suitable for a different student. Try engaging your students in the learning process. You can also ask your students to share what their favorite learning style is.

Since adults' lives are always developing and changing, the theory of learning for adults should change also change. Regularly access the application of your theory to teaching adults. Adult learning methods must be constantly evolving.

Remember that it's never too late begin learning new things. Anything is possible if you put your mind on the task!