adult learning styles
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Adult Learning StylesTRANSCRIPT
Theories of Adult Learning – An Overview
John T. Beaver, MBA
What is unique about adult learners?
Adults have:More life experience to build onCompeting responsibilities
What is unique about adult learners?
Adults generally are:More resistant to new ideasAutonomousSelf-directedGoal orientedRelevancy oriented
Theories Covered
1. Transformational Learning
2. Accelerated Learning
3. 4MAT
4. Self Directed Learning
Transformational Learning
The intent of education for emancipatory action – or … perspective transformation …is the providing of the learner with:
an accurate in-depth understanding of his or her historical situation;
becoming critically aware of how and why the structure of psycho-cultural assumptions has come to constrain the way we see ourselves and our relationships,
reconstituting the structure to permit a more inclusive and discriminating integration of experience and acting upon these new understandings.
In English, Transformation Learning is
Looking at what is, and how it came to beLooking at internal assumptionsExamining new informationIntentionally attempting to create behavioral changes
in the learner, based on new knowledge.
Goals of Transformational Learning
Ideally, in transformative learning, learners are:
1. becoming more reflective and critical
2. being more open to the perspectives of others
3. being less defensive and more accepting of new ideas
Transformational Learning Process
An appraisal of oneself or self-
scrutinyAn exploration of
ways to either explain
discrepancies or to live with them
The development of alternative perspectives or
new ways of thinking and acting
Occurrence of a trigger event that prompts inner discomfort and perplexity
The integration of new perspectives into one’s life
KEY for Transformational Learning
The learner changes perspective and/or behavior as a result of the learning
Accelerated Learning
Accelerated Learning recognizes that each of us has an individual preferred way of learning that suits us best.
When you learn the techniques that exactly match your personal learning style, you will be learning in the way that is most natural for you.
Because it is natural, it is easier; because it is easier, it is faster.
Accelerated Learning Principles
1. Learning involves the whole mind and body2. Leaning is creation, not consumption3. Collaboration aids learning4. Learning takes place on many levels
simultaneously5. Learning comes from doing the work itself (with
feedback)6. Positive emotions greatly improve learning7. The image brain absorbs information instantly and
automatically
Accelerated Learning Process
Motivate the mind Acquire information Search out meaning Trigger the memory Exhibit what is known Reflect on what was learned
The SAVI Approach
Involve the learner through:Somatic (physical) learning
Involve the bodyAuditory learning
Let them hear and talk about itVisual Learning
Let them visualize and picture itIntellectual learning
Let them process it
KEY for Accelerated Learning
The learner learns in the way he/she learns best
Learners receive information on a continuum Direct Experience -- Abstract Concept
Learners process information on a continuum Active Experimentation -- Reflective Observation
The point of intersection of the two identifies the learner’s favorite way to learn.
4MAT System
4MAT System
Learners also favor one side of the brain over another.
Left Brain Right Brain
logical creative
verbal spatial
analytical intuitive
4MAT System - DiSC
Dominance - relating to control, power and assertiveness Influence - relating to social situations and communication Steadiness - relating to patience, persistence, and thoughtfulness Compliance - relating to structure and organization
4MAT System
The combination of the perception, processing and brain dominance creates eight diverse learning styles.
The 4MAT System uses a cyclical approach to teach around the circle in a variety of methods to reach each learner’s strong area, and allow stretching by experiences in the weaker, non-dominant arenas.
KEY for 4MAT System Learning
The learner changes perspective and/or behavior as a result of the learning
Experiential Learning
Learning is facilitated when: (1) the student participates completely in the learning
process and has control over its nature and direction,
(2) it is primarily based upon direct confrontation with practical, social, personal or research problems
(3) self-evaluation is the principal method of assessing progress or success.
Experiential Learning
Teacher’s role
(1) setting a positive climate for learning,
(2) clarifying the purposes of the learner(s),
(3) organizing and making available learning resources,
(4) balancing intellectual and emotional components of learning,
(5) sharing feelings and thoughts with learners but not dominating.
Experiential Learning
Concrete Experience
Observation and Reflection
Testing in New Situations
Forming Abstract Concepts
Experiential Learning Styles
Learning style Learning characteristic
Converger Abstract conceptualization + active experimentation
Diverger Concrete experience + reflective observation
Assimilator Abstract conceptualization + reflective observation
Accommodator Concrete experience + active experimentation
KEY for Experiential Learning
Learning is problem solving. It is most effective when it is initiated by the learner, and facilitated by the teacher