Adult education

Adult Education is the theory and field dedicated to the instruction of Adults. Contrast this with "conventional" education, which is primarily concerned with the education of children.

Adults learn differently than children learn. Children are often learning for learning's sake. Conversely, while adults may enjoy the learning process, they normally have motivations and goals, along with life experience and challenges which affect how and why they learn. This topic will explore the theory and practice of educating adults.

Learning encompasses different learning styles, delivery methods, and degrees of evaluation. Some people learn best by reading or visualizing; some by listening, and others still, by actually doing or practicing.

For delivery, there are several possibilities. Informative or instructive books; in-class instruction with an instructor teaching, or distance learning (which can be live or pre-recorded videos; or interactive) are a few methods. Evaluation can be accomplished via self-testing; quiz or multiple choice, with set answers; or a full blown examination, in which all work must be written out, or answer in essay form. Oral examinations and portfolios are useful alternatives in certain fields.

See also