Principles and Practices of Adult Learning Theory

Formats   Live Virtual: 4 hrs./1 Day  |  In-Person: 6 hrs./1 Day

This course introduces the core principles of adult learning theory and how they apply to effective training and education. Participants will explore concepts such as self-directed learning, motivation, relevance, and experiential learning. Through practical strategies and real-world examples, learners will gain tools to design and deliver training that engages adult learners, enhances retention, and drives meaningful outcomes in the workplace.

Learning Objectives »

  • Describe the foundational principles of adult learning theory.
  • Apply experiential, transformative, and self-directed learning.
  • Identify the characteristics and motivations of adult learners.
  • Apply adult learning theory to design learner-centered training.
  • Discuss adult learning tools and technology.
  • Utilize the Universal Design for Learning.
  • Examine VARK Learning styles.
  • Adapt instructional strategies to meet the needs of adult learners.

Course Agenda

Understanding Adult Learners

  1. What is Adult Learning Theory?
  2. Andragogy vs. Pedagogy
  3. Assumptions of Adult Learners
  4. Key Characteristics of Adult Learners
  5. Principles of Adult Learning
  6. Factors that Motivate or Hinder Learning
  7. Identifying Characteristics in Learners

Theories Supporting Adult Learning

  1. Experiential Learning
  2. Transformative Learning
  3. Self-Directed Learning

Designing Learning with Adults in Mind

  1. Universal Design for Learning
  2. Adult-Centered Instructional Design
  3. Relevance, Application, and Autonomy
  4. Designing with Empathy
  5. Adapting a Lesson with Adult Learners

Adult Learning Delivery

  1. Facilitation vs. Instruction
  2. Facilitation Techniques
  3. The Role of Motivation
  4. Active Learning Strategies
  5. Effective Case Studies
  6. Think-Pair-Share
  7. Reflective Activities
  8. Microlearning
  9. Technology and AI
  10. Gamification
  11. Feedback in Adult Learning
  12. Creating Action Plans
  13. Evaluating Learning Impact

Customizing for Different Audiences

  1. VARK Learning Styles
  2. Adapting for Experience and Preferences
  3. Virtual and Hybrid Considerations
Black woman leading a training session for adults in a modern workplace.

Principles and Practices of Adult Learning Theory

Formats   Live Virtual: 4 hrs./1 Day  |  In-Person: 6 hrs./1 Day

This course introduces the core principles of adult learning theory and how they apply to effective training and education. Participants will explore concepts such as self-directed learning, motivation, relevance, and experiential learning. Through practical strategies and real-world examples, learners will gain tools to design and deliver training that engages adult learners, enhances retention, and drives meaningful outcomes in the workplace.

Learning Objectives »

  • Describe the foundational principles of adult learning theory.
  • Apply experiential, transformative, and self-directed learning.
  • Identify the characteristics and motivations of adult learners.
  • Apply adult learning theory to design learner-centered training.
  • Discuss adult learning tools and technology.
  • Utilize the Universal Design for Learning.
  • Examine VARK Learning styles.
  • Adapt instructional strategies to meet the needs of adult learners.

Course Agenda

Understanding Adult Learners

  1. What is Adult Learning Theory?
  2. Andragogy vs. Pedagogy
  3. Assumptions of Adult Learners
  4. Key Characteristics of Adult Learners
  5. Principles of Adult Learning
  6. Factors that Motivate or Hinder Learning
  7. Identifying Characteristics in Learners

Theories Supporting Adult Learning

  1. Experiential Learning
  2. Transformative Learning
  3. Self-Directed Learning

Designing Learning with Adults in Mind

  1. Universal Design for Learning
  2. Adult-Centered Instructional Design
  3. Relevance, Application, and Autonomy
  4. Designing with Empathy
  5. Adapting a Lesson with Adult Learners

Adult Learning Delivery

  1. Facilitation vs. Instruction
  2. Facilitation Techniques
  3. The Role of Motivation
  4. Active Learning Strategies
  5. Effective Case Studies
  6. Think-Pair-Share
  7. Reflective Activities
  8. Microlearning
  9. Technology and AI
  10. Gamification
  11. Feedback in Adult Learning
  12. Creating Action Plans
  13. Evaluating Learning Impact

Customizing for Different Audiences

  1. VARK Learning Styles
  2. Adapting for Experience and Preferences
  3. Virtual and Hybrid Considerations