The Principles
of Adult Learning
By Barry Sweeny, Based on the Ideas
of John Goodlad
ADULTS PREFER LEARNING SITUATIONS
WHICH:
1. ARE PRACTICAL AND PROBLEM-CENTERED, SO...
- Give overviews, summaries, examples & use
stories
- Plan for direct application of the new information
- Design in collaborative, problem-solving activities
- Anticipate problems applying the new ideas,
offer suggested uses
CAUTION- Guard against becoming too theoretical.
2. PROMOTE THEIR POSITIVE SELF ESTEEM, SO...
- Provide low-risk activities in small group
settings
- Plan for building success incrementally
- Help them become more effective and competent
CAUTION- Readiness to learn depends on self-esteem
3. INTEGRATE NEW IDEAS WITH EXISTING KNOWLEDGE,
SO...
- Help them recall what they already know that
relates to the new ideas
- Help them see how the new information is relevant
to them.
- Plan ways they can share their experience with
each other
CAUTION- find ways to assess participant knowledge
before an event
4. SHOW RESPECT FOR THE INDIVIDUAL LEARNER, SO...
- Provide for their needs through breaks, snacks,
coffee, comfort
- Provide a quality, well organized experience
that uses time effectively
- Avoid jargon and don't "talk down"
to participants
- Validate and affirm their knowledge, contributions
and successes
- Ask for feedback on your work or ideas, provide
input opportunities
CAUTION- Watch your choice of words to avoid
negative perceptions
5. CAPITALIZE ON THEIR EXPERIENCE, SO...
- Don't ignore what they know, it's a resource
for you
- Plan alternate activities so you can adjust
to fit their experience level
- Create activities that use their experience
and knowledge
- Listen before, during and after the event
CAUTION- Provide for the possibility of a need
to unlearn old habits
6. ALLOW CHOICE AND SELF-DIRECTION, SO...
- Build your plans around their needs, compare
goals & actual
- Share your agenda and assumptions and ask for
input on them
- Ask what they know about the topic
- Ask what they would like to know about the
topic
- Build in options within your plan so you can
easily shift if needed
- Suggest follow up ideas and next steps for
after the session
CAUTION- Match the degree of choice to their
level of development
