Five adult learning theories — andragogy, experiential learning, self-directed learning, transformational learning, and neuroscience — as a design framework for adult-learning technology¶

Theory · All theories
Evidence · no claims cited

Description¶

The report organizes its design guidance around "five of the prevailing theories about how adults learn: andragogy, experiential learning, self-directed learning, transformational learning, and neuroscience." Each theory yields design moves — experience-based tasks, problem solving, reflection, learner control, and transformative triggers — that the report translates into recommendations for products serving low-skilled adult learners.

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• Design decisions must draw on multiple theories rather than one universal rule, since the report states "there is no one principle that can be applied to all adults."

Constraints¶

• Guidance is addressed to entrepreneurs and developers building digital learning for "underserved adult learners," not to K-12 product design.

Target Learners¶

• low-skilled adult learners reading at or below a 3rd grade level
• adult education and ESL students

Target Learning Objectives¶

• workforce readiness and advancement skills
• adult basic education and English language learning

Claims¶

Related Theories¶

• Andragogy: Knowles' framework of assumptions about adult learning, distinct from pedagogy
• Knowles' andragogy (Adult Learning Theory) as the framework for adult immigrant instruction
• Experiential Learning Theory
• Kolb's experiential learning theory: knowledge created through transformation of experience via a four-stage cycle
• Three-dimension framework distinguishing self-initiated learning, self-direction as personal attribute, and self-direction as educational goal
• Self-directed learning as a five-step process learners control themselves

Examples¶

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Key Sources¶

• Designing Technology for Adult Learners: Applying Adult Learning Theory. (2016). https://digitalpromise.dspacedirect.org/items/bb3f892f-a74d-4da1-8086-0334fd227316