Adult LearningMisconceptions and Light-Bulb Moments

Michelle Ruppert EDU 643

IntroductionO Individual

O All learners vs. Unique adult learner O Group

O Same as traditional vs. Special Challenges

O Teaching MethodO Pedagogy vs. Andragogy

A learner = A learner

My thoughts were:O All learners are the sameO All learners can input information the

same wayO No consideration about how

experiences or worldview may impact learning

Misconce

ption

Worldview MattersO Adults bring experiences to their learningO All adults have different experiences

O EXPERIENTIAL LEARNINGO Helps learners use their experiences O Learn skills along with knowledge

O ExampleO Recognize students’ prior college experiencesO Understanding these helps the admissions

process run smoother

TRUT

H

Adults are regular students

My thoughts were:O Adults and more traditional

learners are the sameO There are no special considerations

that need to be made when working with adult students

Misconcep

tion

Adults face challengesO Adults students struggle with:

O Time & MoneyO PrioritizingO Motivation

O One solution may be SELF-DIRECTED LEARNINGO Students strengthen their intrinsic motivationO Focus on their needs and relevant materialO Learning becomes personal and applicable

O ExampleO Help students realize their motivation

TRUTH

Teaching Method

My thoughts were:O Adult learners benefit from the same

teaching strategies as traditional students

O There are no changes necessary to better serve adult learners

Misconcep

tion

AndragogyO Teaching should be adapted to embrace the

experiences and self-direction of adult learnersO Educators should shift into a mentor position

to help adults find the knowledge they needO ANDRAGOGY

O Helps ensure learning is personalizedO Allows learners to take control

O ExampleO Empower decision making in applicantsO Facilitate instead of directing the admissions process

TRUTH

ConclusionO Unique individualsO Group facing specific challenges and in

need of motivation to succeedO Require an altered teaching style to meet

these needs

With understanding comes improvement

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Heutagogical Practice and Self-Determined Learning. [Article]. International Review of Research in Open & Distance Learning, 13(1), 56-71.

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O Lohman, M. (2000). Environmental inhibitors to informal learning on the workplace: A case study of public school teachers. Adult Education Quarterly, 50(2), 83.

O Merriam, S, Caffarella, R., & Baumgartner, L. (2007). Learning in adulthood: A comprehensive guide. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.

O Sang, C. (2010). Applications of Andragogy in Multi-Disciplined Teaching and Learning. [Article]. MPAEA Journal of Adult Education, 39(2), 25-35.

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