Characteristics of the Adult Learner
Workplace training experiences are more likely to be successful if they are built upon the needs of adult learners. Researcher Malcom Knowles identifies some vital principles of adult learning:
- Adults need to be actively involved in the learning.
Adult learners are self-directed
Adult learning is generally more problem centered rather than subject centered
Portions of the learning must be self-directed.
The learning must be practicably connected life experiences.
The learning must be relevant to everyday work needs
It must be structured so that participants can see where they are going and why.
It must be well organized.
Adult participants must have time to voice opinions and personal experiences
They must feel that they are helping to shape the direction of the learning
They need room in the training to reflect and speculate
Adults learn best when challenged
Adults need time to practice new skills
Adults like to tell their story
Adult groups like to find common ground and shared meaning
They must have ample time to discuss
Part of the learning should be experiential
Learning should be ongoing where concepts can be reinforced and expanded
Adults are more internally motivated rather than externally motivated