Adult Learning

Catalog description

Section information text: This course provides a comprehensive examination of major theories and frameworks in adult learning, exploring the unique skills required to effectively engage and teach adult learners. Students will trace the historical development of adult learning theory, analyze contemporary perspectives, and apply these principles to diverse learning contexts. The course delves into adult learning and developmental theory, including andragogy, transformative learning, phase and stage developmental theories, and the impact of social determinants of health (SDOH), race, gender, sexual orientation, and age on adult learning. Educators will reflect on how the course material connects with their own experiences as adult learners. Emphasizing the scholar-practitioner model, the course bridges theory and practice. Through a variety of practical assignments, participants will develop skills in communicating complex concepts, critiquing prominent theorists, applying adult learning and development theories, and articulating their own positions on adult learning as scholar-practitioners committed to positive social change within organizations. This course significantly contributes to the progressive development of the student's capstone project. Note: The Main Issue and ultimately the Problem of Practice that you select must be aligned to your degree specialization. For example: If you are in the Early Childhood Education specialization, the Main Issue and the Problem of Practice for your capstone must focus on that educational specialization.