Training and Development For Dummies

Chapter 2

Why Adults Learn

In This Chapter

Examining the basic principles of adult learning

Defining a trainer’s responsibility to ensure adults learn

Identifying recent conclusions about how we learn

Defining training roles

Think back to the past 60 days. What is one thing you learned?

Before reading ahead, try to recall what you learned and why you learned it. Perhaps you learned to play racquetball because you always wanted to learn to play the game. Perhaps you had a flat tire on the way home, and you had to learn to change the tire because you had to do it. You didn’t want to, but you had no choice.

If you’re like most adults, you learn to do most things as an adult because you want to learn it or you need to learn it.

This chapter explores adult learning theory, how people learn, and how trainers can assist participants to learn in the classroom.

Adult Learning Theory

Trainers are most successful when they understand conditions under which adults learn best. Therefore, it is important to understand the difference between why adults learn and how adults are traditionally taught. ...