An Introduction To Adult Learning

Adult Learning Cycle

Assessing Needs --> Setting Objectives --> Identifying Methods -->

--> Evaluating Process and Outcomes --> Assessing New Needs --> etc.

S.W.O.T Analysis (Strengths Weaknesses Outcomes Threats)

F.A.I.R (Feedback Activity Individualise Relevance)

Experential Learning

Professional Experience -->Recognise the potential for learning -->

Reflect alone or with others --> Conclude --> Plan for next time --> Further experience

The Levels of Learning

Values, Beliefs

Self awareness

Emotions

Complex skills

Procedures

Principals

Facts, Figures

Significant Event Analysis

Define Event -- why was it chosen? -- what actually happened? -- what should have happened? -- can/how can event be measured? -- what can we conclude? -- what can we recommend?

Problem Based Learning

Identify a case which you remember or are dealing with. It may be a difficult consultation, or series of events, or perhaps a challenging experience.

Present the scenario or experience as:

Facts -------------Ideas--------------Learning Points

Pendleton Rules for Feedback

Observe Activity

Ask learner how feels it went - what went well? - what not so well?

Observer (or group) to identify what went well - what not so well?

Give CONSTRUCTIVE criticism for the BENEFIT OF THE LEARNER

What might the learner do differently next time?

"Educational Sandwich"

Explore things done well - then things done not so well - then things done well

Learning Styles

Theorists like

    concepts and models; to see the overall picture; to feel intellectually stretched; structure and clear objectives; logical presentation of ideas

Strengths: 

logical "vertical" thinkers

Rational and objective

Good at asking probing questions

Disciplined approach

Weaknesses:

Restricted in lateral thinking

Low tolerance for uncertainty, disorder and ambiguity

Intolerant of anything subjective or intuitive

Full of "shoulds", "oughts" and "musts"

Pragmatists like

    to see the relevance of their work; to gain practical advantage from learning; credible role models; proven techniques; activities to be real

Strengths:

Keen to test things out in practice

Practical down to earth, realistic

Business like - get straight to the point

Technique orientated

Weaknesses:

tendency to reject anything without an obvious application

Not very interested in theory or basic principles

Tendency to seize on the first expedient solution to a problem

Impatient with waffle

On balance, task orientated and not people orientated

Activists like

    to think on their feet; to have short sessions; plenty of variety; to participate and have fun

Strengths:

Flexible and open-minded

Happy to have a go

Happy to be exposed to new situations

Optimistic about anything new and therefore unlikely to resist change

Weaknesses:

Tendency to take the immediately obvious action without thinking

Often take unnecessary risks

Tendency to do too much themselves and hog the limelight

Rush into action without sufficient preparation

Get bored with implementation forward/consolidation

Reflectors like

    to think before acting; thorough preparation; researching and evaluating; to make decisions in their own time; to listen and observe

Strengths:

Careful

Thorough and methodical

Thoughtful

Good at listening to others and assimilating information

Rarely jump to conclusions

Weaknesses: 

tendency to hold back from direct participation

Slow to make up their minds and reach a decision

Tendency to be too cautious and not take enough risks

Not assertive - they aren't particularly forthcoming and have no small talk

Course Organisers 

web designed by Chris Wilkinson, North Worcestershire VTS