Characteristics of Adult Learners

Because the adult learner is primarily in charge of their own learning, the teacher of adults has a different audience than the one who teaches children.  Malcolm S. Knowles (1973), a pioneer in adult learning, noted the following characteristics of adult learners:

• Need to know why they are learning something
• Learn by doing 
• Are problem solvers 
• Learn best when the subject is of immediate use 
• Prefer social interaction 
• Want to use their life experiences in the classroom 
• Want to integrate new ideas with existing knowledge

Tips for Teaching Adults 

• Use a variety of teaching and learning methods, including discussion, hands-on learning, case studies, simulations, demonstrations, guest speakers (be creative).
• Encourage active participation in discussions, use breakout groups for more personal interaction.
• Use a variety of resources, such as publications, videos, webinars, photos.
• Make the learning relevant to what the learners will be doing when they leave the classroom.
• Spend less time lecturing and let learners work on solving problems.
• Plan some activities where adult learners can direct their own learning.
• Provide a supportive learning environment with multiple resources, breaks, and opportunities to ask questions and correct mistakes.

A Short Video on Teaching Adult Learners