In this article, I will explain you what are the principles of adult learning, adult learning theory and characteristics of adult learning.  Adult learning include self-direction, transformation, experience, mentorship, mental orientation, motivation, and readiness to learn.

Fundamentals of Adult Learning

The core adult learning principles are …

Some characteristics of adult learning are –

v  Adults need to know why they are learning something.
v  Adults are motivated when learning contributes to their quality of life and  self esteem.
v  Adults have greater knowledge and wider experience than younger learners.
v  Adults need to integrate new ideas  with “old” ones if they are going to keep and use the new information.
v  Adults can find it more difficult to relate to, remember and recall if what they are learning is totally new.
v  Adults consider  themselves independent .
v  Adults  are concerned with  immediate problem.
v  Adults enter learning situation with their own goals, motivations and needs.
v  Adults learn better by doing something rather than just reading or discussing.
v  Adults like clear “hand-on” instructions.
v  Adults prefer training programmed that deal with a single topic and focus on applying it to problems.

•             Therefore, need to apply different learning styles for the adult to ensure inclusion and participation during training session.

Research has Shown Two Thinking about the Learning Cycle:

ü  That learning is more effective when the learner is able to complete the whole cycle

Those individuals have different learning styles, in that some will learn better from experiences that emphasis one part of the cycle, while others will learn better from experiences that emphasis another part.

In an ideal environment, a learner would spend time on all four stages on matter how briefly. However, experiential learning is not always sequential; learners may pass through all 4 stages almost concurrently.

For example, when we learn driving a car, not everyone starts from their experience. Some of us may start observing or forming abstract concepts. Then when we start our first driving lesson and develop our experience. Sometimes we might go back to our observations and reflection; or consider what driving will be in a different situation (without an instructor). Thus, we complete the learning cycle.