Adult Learning Theory Paper

1099 Words5 Pages
Summary Due to the increase in job loss in America, there is a substantial rise in adult learners who understand that formal education could mean the difference between gainful employment and joblessness. The abundance of adult learners returning to the classroom has spawned a genuine interest by educators. The intent of this paper is to identify the difference of how adults differ from children in the learning process, and how to best serve the adult learner. The article “Adult Learning Theory: Applications to Non-Traditional College Students” is an article that gives information about adult learners. An adult learner is classified as someone who has completed their GED or high school diploma, is between the ages of 25 and 50, is financially independent, and has completed one semester or less of college course work (Kenner & Weinerman, 2011). According to Kenner & Weinerman’s (2011) article, arriving in the classroom as developed individuals, adult learners re-enter the college community with a palette of skills they have obtained over time. These skills have been accrued from past jobs, responsibilities, and family and life experiences. According to Knowles (1984), adult learners are responsible and motivated by their future goals, making them more likely to actively engage in the learning process (as cited in Kenner & Weinerman, 2011). “Adult Learning Theory for the Twenty-First Century” is an article written by Sharan B. Merriam (2008). This article stresses the importance of focusing on the adult learner as an individual, how the learner processes information, and how learning enables the individual to become more independent and self-sufficient. According to Merriam’s (2008) article, when fostering adult learning, “it is important to encourage reflection and dialogue, whether with the self, another, or a group” (Merriam, 2008 p.97). Merriam’s

More about Adult Learning Theory Paper

Open Document