What is the best approach to adult learning?
MOST adults will do some form of learning after secondary school – whether it’s on-the-job training, workshops, informal classes or formal education. That learning tends to follow the same approach as what we’re exposed to as children – but this may not necessarily be the best way to approach adult learning.
Promote learning domains
Research shows that most adults learn best through a blend of activities that promote the three learning domains: cognitive, affective and behavioural. Cognitive refers to knowledge (lectures, discussions) or a body of subject matter; affective refers to attitudes and beliefs (for example, consensus-seeking activities); and behavioural refers to practical application (role plays, simulations).
A good learning or training programme incorporates tasks that promote a combination of these domains.
Adult learners’ experience
Adults tend to gain more from learning/training when they can draw on their past experiences and knowledge, and validate their learning based on what they already know.
Understanding why something is important to know or do tends to be a core need for many adult learners.
For most adults, being able to apply new principles, skills or knowledge immediately makes their learning/training more effective.
Thus, learning that has immediate relevance and impact to their job or personal life tends to be most appealing for adults.
Customised learning plans
Personalised learning and development plans based on what is most relevant to the individual – or a group in a similar role – tend to be more successful than a singular plan designed for all staff.
Learning needs to be customised to each person’s needs.
Doing so involves careful consideration and discussion with the individuals to ensure that training addresses their actual needs and not their perceived needs. For adults who enrol privately in learning opportunities, sitting down with a knowledgeable and experienced advisor to develop a suitable learning path can be just as beneficial as the needs analysis an organisation would do.
Flexible study options to meet your needs
Wits Plus is the centre for part-time studies at Wits University, and offers selected part-time Wits undergraduate degrees, postgraduate programmes as well as business and language short courses.
Collaboration with Wits Language School, Wits Digital Campus and Wits Online means that flexible study options are further enhanced and continue to expand to meet the changing needs of professionals and mature adults who require their studies to fit within their lifestyles and careers.
The Wits Plus portfolio of business-focused short courses and language courses can also be customised to be delivered in-company, for groups of employees.