Theories of Adult Learning – An Overview

John T. Beaver, MBA

What is unique about adult learners?

Adults have:More life experience to build onCompeting responsibilities

What is unique about adult learners?

Adults generally are:More resistant to new ideasAutonomousSelf-directedGoal orientedRelevancy oriented

Theories Covered

1. Transformational Learning

2. Accelerated Learning

3. 4MAT

4. Self Directed Learning

Transformational Learning

The intent of education for emancipatory action – or … perspective transformation …is the providing of the learner with:

an accurate in-depth understanding of his or her historical situation;

becoming critically aware of how and why the structure of psycho-cultural assumptions has come to constrain the way we see ourselves and our relationships,

reconstituting the structure to permit a more inclusive and discriminating integration of experience and acting upon these new understandings.

In English, Transformation Learning is

Looking at what is, and how it came to beLooking at internal assumptionsExamining new informationIntentionally attempting to create behavioral changes

in the learner, based on new knowledge.

Goals of Transformational Learning

Ideally, in transformative learning, learners are:

1. becoming more reflective and critical

2. being more open to the perspectives of others

3. being less defensive and more accepting of new ideas

Transformational Learning Process

An appraisal of oneself or self-

scrutinyAn exploration of

ways to either explain

discrepancies or to live with them

The development of alternative perspectives or

new ways of thinking and acting

Occurrence of a trigger event that prompts inner discomfort and perplexity

The integration of new perspectives into one’s life

KEY for Transformational Learning

The learner changes perspective and/or behavior as a result of the learning

Accelerated Learning

Accelerated Learning recognizes that each of us has an individual preferred way of learning that suits us best.

When you learn the techniques that exactly match your personal learning style, you will be learning in the way that is most natural for you.

Because it is natural, it is easier; because it is easier, it is faster.

Accelerated Learning Principles

1. Learning involves the whole mind and body2. Leaning is creation, not consumption3. Collaboration aids learning4. Learning takes place on many levels

simultaneously5. Learning comes from doing the work itself (with

feedback)6. Positive emotions greatly improve learning7. The image brain absorbs information instantly and

automatically

Accelerated Learning Process

Motivate the mind Acquire information Search out meaning Trigger the memory Exhibit what is known Reflect on what was learned

The SAVI Approach

Involve the learner through:Somatic (physical) learning

Involve the bodyAuditory learning

Let them hear and talk about itVisual Learning

Let them visualize and picture itIntellectual learning

Let them process it

KEY for Accelerated Learning

The learner learns in the way he/she learns best

Learners receive information on a continuum Direct Experience -- Abstract Concept

Learners process information on a continuum Active Experimentation -- Reflective Observation

The point of intersection of the two identifies the learner’s favorite way to learn.

4MAT System

4MAT System

Learners also favor one side of the brain over another.

Left Brain Right Brain

logical creative

verbal spatial

analytical intuitive

4MAT System - DiSC

Dominance - relating to control, power and assertiveness Influence - relating to social situations and communication Steadiness - relating to patience, persistence, and thoughtfulness Compliance - relating to structure and organization

4MAT System

The combination of the perception, processing and brain dominance creates eight diverse learning styles.

The 4MAT System uses a cyclical approach to teach around the circle in a variety of methods to reach each learner’s strong area, and allow stretching by experiences in the weaker, non-dominant arenas.

KEY for 4MAT System Learning

The learner changes perspective and/or behavior as a result of the learning

Experiential Learning

Learning is facilitated when: (1) the student participates completely in the learning

process and has control over its nature and direction,

(2) it is primarily based upon direct confrontation with practical, social, personal or research problems

(3) self-evaluation is the principal method of assessing progress or success.

Experiential Learning

Teacher’s role

(1) setting a positive climate for learning,

(2) clarifying the purposes of the learner(s),

(3) organizing and making available learning resources,

(4) balancing intellectual and emotional components of learning,

(5) sharing feelings and thoughts with learners but not dominating.

Experiential Learning

Concrete Experience

Observation and Reflection

Testing in New Situations

Forming Abstract Concepts

Experiential Learning Styles

Learning style Learning characteristic

Converger Abstract conceptualization + active experimentation

Diverger Concrete experience + reflective observation

Assimilator Abstract conceptualization + reflective observation

Accommodator Concrete experience + active experimentation

KEY for Experiential Learning

Learning is problem solving. It is most effective when it is initiated by the learner, and facilitated by the teacher