Adult Learning Theories And Analysis

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When it comes to perspectives on adult learning, the common belief among authors is that all styles of learning are the same ones that are applicable to early childhood learning. Researchers believe that the only difference is the learning environment in which the learning style is used. Most of adult learning is in a place that facilitates many different training activities. The expectation from trainers and instructors is to include the different learning styles, meanwhile providing the required delivery skills, experience in design, and the ability to apply the different learning theories in different learning settings (Meyer, 2003).

According to Malcolm Knowles a pioneer in the field of adult learning, adults have specific requirements …show more content…

Action learning is considered as the approach to developing individuals by working on an actual assignment or project in order to learn. Those participating are divided into small teams to work on the assignment, and learn throughout the process. An instructor works closely with the teams to aid them in simultaneously working and learning. This type of learning has its advantages, including group formation, diversity and inclusion within the group that aids in the learning process, and the use of group dynamics. (Merriam & Bierema, 2013). The disadvantages, however, include the occasional conflict within the group dynamics, difficulty in maintaining consistency within the different groups, and the struggle of keeping a balance between completing tasks and learning from them along the way. (Merriam & Bierema, 2013) In experiential learning, the focus is on the learner, and the assumption is that experience is what best educates an individual. In other words, this method encourages learning by doing, therefore the student is hands-on with the material provided, rather than just speaking or reflecting on it. Some advantages are that it is developed through experience that is acquired in a person’s daily life. Moreover, it is a holistic approach, and assumes that learning is most effective when a person is intrinsically motivated (Merriam,