The Adult Learner

Paper Summary:

This paper first defines the adult learner and compares that definition with that for the non-traditional student. The paper then address three of the challenges that face the adult learner: work demands, family demands and cognitive changes. Next, this paper addresses some of the ways that schools are assisting adult learners in meeting these challenges. The paper then concludes with some discussion on the writer's experience as an adult learner.

From the Paper:

"The adult learner is becoming a more common sight in today's classrooms. At one time most common in continuing education classes, adult learners are now returning to school to get their bachelor's degree or master's degree. And interestingly, many of these learners are there because they want to be, not because an employer sent them to learn new skills. There are some challenges, however, that face the adult learner. Many times such students are involved in complex careers that place demands on their time. At other times, they may have families that need attention. And if adult learners are old enough, they may actually face cognitive challenges to the learning process. This paper will first define the adult learner, comparing that definition with that for the non-traditional student."

More papers on The Adult Learner:

• Research Paper # 55832 : "The Adult Learner"
• Case Study # 74185 : "Adult Learner Case Study"
• Dissertation or Thesis # 118278 : "EFL Adult Learners"

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