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