This document outlines keys and characteristics for instructing adult learners. It identifies 7 keys: 1) learning is a means to an end, 2) the instructor role requires control, 3) adults often enroll due to life events. It also identifies 10 additional adult learner characteristics: 1) integrating new ideas with prior knowledge, 2) taking errors personally, 3) protecting minority opinions, 4) respecting students, 5) prior experiences affecting engagement, 6) bringing experience and knowledge, 7) wanting relevance, 8) enjoying peer interaction, 9) having preferences, 10) expecting applicability and feedback. The document emphasizes structuring learning around goals, integrating prior knowledge, respecting students, and making information useful.

1. Stanbridge University

2.  At the conclusion of this session you should be able to:
◦ Identify 7 keys and corresponding strategies for
working with the adult learner
◦ Identify 10 additional characteristics of the adult
learner that will become obvious when instructing this
special category of students.

4. 1. Learning is a means to an end, not
an end in itself. – Adult learners
enroll in programs with a goal in
mind – your job is to help them
attain the goal
2. The key to the instructor role is
control. – Adults learn best in a
structured environment – “winging it”
won’t work
3. Adults often enroll due to a recent
event in their lives (being laid off,
returning to the workplace following
divorce, discharge from the service,
etc.) - The instructor may have to
assist them in coping with their new
circumstances

5. 1. Adults need to be able to integrate new ideas with what they already
know if they are going to keep and use the new information. The
instructor needs to continually be reminding the adult learner of the
goal they are working towards.
2. Adults tend to take errors personally and are more likely to let them
affect self-esteem. Therefore, they tend to apply tried-and-true
solutions and take fewer risks. Some adults are not “risk-takers” and
will need some prodding to try something new.
3. The instructor has to protect minority opinion, keep disagreements
civil and unheated, make connections between various opinions and
ideas, and keep reminding the group of the variety of potential
solutions to the problem. People easily become set in their ways and
because of this the instructor must always

6.  With the adult learner,
the instructor needs to
treat each student with
respect
 Bad experiences in
traditional education,
feelings on authority
and the preoccupation
with events outside the
classroom affect in-
class experience.

8. 1. Adults bring prior experience and
knowledge with them.
2. Adults want to know what's in it for
them (WIFM).
3. Adults enjoy speaking to one
another, not just listening to the
sound of your voice.
4. Adults have preferences and
prejudices that may not be
overcome in a one-shot training.
5. Adults expect to be respected.
6. Adults enjoy active learning, small
group exercises and moving
around the room. Vary training
activities.
7. Adults expect to be able to use
what they learn immediately. Make
information applicable.
8. Adults learn at different speeds
and through different methods. Be
flexible.
9. Adults need feedback and
constructive criticism.

9. Adults like to laugh.
The emphasis is on
building the person not
tearing them down.