Designing Caring and Inclusive Online Classroom Environments for Non-Traditional Learners

Adult learning theory suggests that adults need to perceive the relevance and purpose of learning in order to learn most effectively. Grounded in the notion that adults frame their own learning objectives, are self-directed and active participants in their learning, require constructive feedback and want opportunities to practice new skills, online and virtual learning environments are well suited for adult learners and are directly based on adult learning principles. Virtual environments provide opportunities for adults to construct learning based on what they already know and apply what they are learning in the instructional setting. An online instructor is an adult learning expert. Using adult and constructivist learning theories and current knowledge about web-based andragogy, this chapter will focus on the characteristics and learning preferences of adult-learners in virtual learning environments and recommend instructional design and teaching strategies to encourage behaviors that influence student engagement, retention and learning.

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Applying Holistic Adult Learning Theory to the Study of Calculus

Journal of University Teaching and Learning Practice ◽

10.53761/1.15.3.6 ◽

2018 ◽

Vol 15 (3) ◽

pp. 85-98

Author(s):

Reem Jaafar ◽

◽

Joni Schwartz ◽

Keyword(s):

Adult Learning ◽

Transformative Learning ◽

Learning Theory ◽

Adult Learning Theory ◽

Comparative Case Study ◽

Holistic Learning ◽

Data Content ◽

Learning Modes ◽

College Calculus

This exploratory, comparative case study of an urban community college calculus classroom examines adult learning from Yang’s Holistic Learning Theory and provides concrete pedagogical suggestions for how adult learning practitioners can engage adult learners in transformative learning. Data collection was from a selective sampling of student reflective survey writing throughout the span of one calculus course. Data content analysis was both manual and with the aid of NVivo qualitative software by two separate coders. Findings indicate that students exhibit strong explicit and in some instances implicit learning modes but seldom engage in transformative or emancipatory modes of learning as it relates to math. The study, although a pilot, suggests avenues for further research in math learning as well as ideas for eclectic teaching approaches in adult math classrooms. Implications for professors and administrators are discussed.

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Application of Adult Learning Theory in Distance Learning

Virtual Environments for Corporate Education - Advances in Higher Education and Professional Development ◽

10.4018/978-1-61520-619-3.ch002 ◽

2010 ◽

pp. 14-35

Author(s):

Mary Rose Grant

Keyword(s):

Adult Learners ◽

Adult Learning ◽

Learning Environments ◽

Learning Theory ◽

Adult Learning Theory ◽

Virtual Learning ◽

Learning Preferences ◽

Virtual Learning Environments ◽

Learning Theories ◽

Constructive Feedback

Adult learning theory suggests that adults need to perceive the relevance and purpose of learning in order to learn most effectively. Grounded in the notion that adults frame their own learning objectives, are self-directed and active participants in their learning, require constructive feedback and want opportunities to practice new skills, online and virtual learning environments are well suited for adult learners and are directly based on adult learning principles. Virtual environments provide opportunities for adults to construct learning based on what they already know and apply what they are learning in the instructional setting. An online instructor is an adult learning expert. Using adult and constructivist learning theories and current knowledge about web-based andragogy, this chapter will focus on the characteristics and learning preferences of adult-learners in virtual learning environments and recommend instructional design and teaching strategies to encourage behaviors that influence student engagement, retention and learning.

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Creating Sustainable Communities

Encyclopedia of Strategic Leadership and Management ◽

10.4018/978-1-5225-1049-9.ch008 ◽

2017 ◽

pp. 94-110

Author(s):

Christina Van Wingerden ◽

Stan Goto ◽

Misha Burstein

Keyword(s):

Adult Learning ◽

Community Of Practice ◽

Learning Theory ◽

Adult Learning Theory ◽

Learning Theories ◽

Sustainable Communities ◽

Leadership And Management ◽

Organizational Environments ◽

Adult Learning Theories

Generating investment in community is experience leaders seek to stimulate in academic, business, and organizational environments. Through the lens of adult learning theory, the authors propose a means for greater group commitment and sustainability which can help the field of strategic leadership and management. A case study of a graduate class who became a community of practice is presented as an example of adult learning theories and how they can enhance shared power and leadership for sustainable communities.

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