What is Adult Learning Theory and Why It Matters

Educational programs and experiences designed for adults help individuals acquire the expertise needed to pivot into new industries, advance their careers, or develop a deeper sense of personal fulfillment. Educators who specialize in continuing education for adults often rely on adult learning theory frameworks to create relevant, practical learning experiences for this unique student population. 

What Is Adult Learning Theory?

Adult learning theory, which was developed by Malcolm Knowles, refers to the frameworks and pedagogies that best suit adult educational programs. It primarily focuses on the unique needs and experiences of adult learners. 

Definition of Adult Learning Theory

According to EBSCO, adult learning theory is an educational framework that recognizes the impact of life experience on the learning process and seeks to accommodate the particular needs of adult students enrolled in continuing education programs or vocational training. Adult learning theory is also sometimes referred to as andragogy.  

The Concept of Andragogy

The concept of andragogy first emerged in the latter half of the 19th century but became increasingly relevant throughout the 20th and 21st centuries, especially as demand for adult learning experiences rose. Andragogy acknowledges the fact that adult students rely on their life experiences during the learning process and use those experiences to complement their education. 

Key Principles of Adult Learning Theory

The adult education principles that anchor this powerful theory allow educators, curriculum developers and instructional designers to create effective and engaging programming for adults looking to build their skills and develop key expertise. 

Below are the adult learning principles that guide educators looking to implement adult learning theory into their programming: 

Adults Are Self-Directed Learners

Most adults actively choose to enroll in continuing education or professional development programs, and they take responsibility for their own learning outcomes. This autonomy may encourage them to seek out resources and set personal goals. 

Adults Bring Prior Experience to Learning 

In both their professional and personal lives, adults rely on their prior experiences to fuel the learning process. This ability to connect previous experiences to current learning outcomes often makes adult learners more enthusiastic about educational programs. 

Learning Must Be Relevant

Adult learners are more motivated when they can recognize the real-world, practical application of the program. When content aligns with their personal or professional goals, they are more likely to stay engaged and retain the information.  

Problem-Centered Learning Is More Effective

Adult education theory relies heavily on problem-centered learning that highlights real-world challenges and offers actionable solutions. This allows learners to immediately apply new knowledge and skills in meaningful ways.  

Internal Motivation Drives Adult Learning

While children are often motivated to fit in with their peer group or please others, adults are more internally motivated. They often enroll in a continuing education program to advance their understanding, develop new skills, and improve their quality of life.  

How Adult Learning Differs from Traditional Learning

Adult learners are distinctly different from traditional students. They typically enroll in continuing education programs for their own benefit, and their needs are more practical.  

Differences Between Pedagogy and Andragogy

Pedagogy refers to the teacher-directed approach to child learning, which acknowledges that children have limited previous experience and need the guidance of an instructor. Andragogy, on the other hand, is a self-directed, learner-centered approach that relies on adult education principles to accommodate the needs and experiences of adult students. The table below highlights key differences between the two: 

Why These Differences Matter in Education

Being aware of the differences between pedagogy and andragogy allows instructional designers and curriculum developers to create the most effective, engaging and impactful programming for their specific population of learners. 

Where Adult Learning Theory Matters

Adult learning theory comes into play in places where educators are shaping educational opportunities and skills-based programming for adults, such as: 

Higher Education and Graduate Programs

At colleges and universities, administrators use collaborative approaches to create undergraduate and graduate degree programs that prepare students for their chosen field. At a time when flexibility and self-directed learning define the college experience, adult education principles hold relevance.  Workplace Training and Professional Development

Training and development specialists are responsible for creating skills-based programs that advance knowledge and build relevant skills among workers in organizational settings. They must have a strong understanding of adult learning theory to create professional development programs that emphasize self-direction and promote skills that are immediately applicable in workplace environments. 

Instructional Design and eLearning

Instructional design specialists and those who create eLearning programs utilize adult learning principles to support self-directed learning. They can also provide adult learners with flexible environments that they generally prefer. 

Examples of Adult Learning Theory in Practice 

Understanding adult learning theory is the first step. Next, educators, curriculum specialists, and instructional designers must be able to put adult learning principles into practice. 

Case-Based Learning

Case-based learning allows educators to present real-world scenarios for adults to analyze and solve. This format showcases relevance while supporting problem-centered learning. 

Experiential Learning

Experiential learning is increasingly common in continuing education for adults, especially as adults want to immediately apply their newfound knowledge and skills in practical scenarios. This form of learning involves hands-on activities, simulations, and professional experiences. 

Collaborative Learning

Collaborative approaches leverage the power of previous experience, allowing adults to engage in group discussions, peer learning, and knowledge sharing. This method enhances understanding through diverse perspectives while fostering critical thinking and problem-solving skills.  

Flexible Learning Environments

Flexibility has never been more important in adult learning programs. Online learning platforms allow adults to balance education with work and family responsibilities. 

Why Adult Learning Theory Is Important for Educators and Trainers

Educators who focus on creating and developing adult learning programs need to have an advanced understanding of adult learning theory, how it applies in the modern landscape, and how it supports the needs of their target demographic. 

Adult learning theory is important because it: 

Improves Learning Outcomes

By creating tailored approaches for adult learners, educators can develop programming that accommodates their specific needs. Ideally, programming should support practical, technical, and soft skill development while giving adult students the opportunity to explore new interests. 

Increases Engagement

Adult learners are self-directed and motivated. As a result, they often pursue applicable, relevant programming that aligns with their interests or areas of expertise.  

Supports Lifelong Learning

By leveraging the power of adult learning principles, curriculum developers, instructional designers and training specialists can provide adult students with fresh opportunities to explore new topics and develop relevant skills. Adults are naturally curious and self-motivated, and when presented with engaging educational experiences, they are often ready and willing to participate. 

The Growing Importance of Adult Learning in Today’s Workforce

As AI technology in higher education is rapidly advancing, technology continues to reshape and redefine industries, and adult learning experiences have become more important than ever.  

Reskilling and Upskilling Trends

According to Stand Together, reskilling and upskilling are becoming essential in today’s workforce due to the ever-widening gap between the skills that workers have and the skills they need. An increasing number of organizations are investing in workforce training programs to equip their workers with the skills required to remain competitive. 

Adult Learners in Online Education

Online learning environments are particularly beneficial for adult learners because they support a self-directed, flexible approach to learning. Jobs for the Future reveals that there are currently over 6.3 million adult college students, many of whom are enrolled in online degree programs. 

Lifelong Learning in Modern Careers

In an era when professionals must be resilient and adaptable, lifelong learning is expected to take center stage. Modern professionals will need to prioritize lifelong learning to expand their knowledge and develop the comprehensive skills needed to remain valuable in their roles. 

Learn More About Continuing Education for Adults at Keiser University Graduate School

Adult education theory plays a prominent role in developing engaging and impactful programs for adults who are returning to school. The education graduate degree programs at Keiser University Graduate School provide educators with an opportunity to explore adult learning principles and learn how to design curricula that meet the unique needs of this population.  

Offering programs such as a Master of Science in Education, Teaching and Learning degree, Education Specialist in Instructional Design and Technology degree and Doctor of Philosophy in Curriculum and Instruction degree, our education graduate degree programs focus on the most relevant skills in today’s workforce. Contact a Graduate Admissions Counselor today to discover the program that is right for you.