This document discusses common barriers faced by adult learners returning to school or training, including attitudinal barriers. It provides an example of a woman who needs to develop new skills after her job was outsourced. Adult learners may fear failure, criticism from peers, and believe they are too old to learn. Educators can help alleviate these fears by providing a welcoming environment, acknowledging students' experiences, and applying Knowles' principles of andragogy - that adults are internally motivated, bring experience to learning, are goal-oriented, relevancy-oriented and practical. The educator's role is to facilitate student-centered learning and provide regular feedback.