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5 Key Assumptions of Knowles' Adult Learning Theory

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Med Amine Naffeti

Adult Learning Theory, developed by Malcolm Knowles in 1968, proposes that adults learn differently than children. It outlines five assumptions about adult learners: that they are self-directed, draw on life experiences, are ready to learn subjects with immediate relevance, are problem-centered, and are internally motivated. The theory also describes four principles of adult learning: that adults learn best through experience, in a self-directed manner focused on immediate problems, on topics with clear relevance, and by being involved in planning their instruction.

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5 Key Assumptions of Knowles' Adult Learning Theory

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Med Amine Naffeti
98 views2 pages
Adult Learning Theory, developed by Malcolm Knowles in 1968, proposes that adults learn differently than children. It outlines five assumptions about adult learners: that they are self-directed, draw on life experiences, are ready to learn subjects with immediate relevance, are problem-centered, and are internally motivated. The theory also describes four principles of adult learning: that adults learn best through experience, in a self-directed manner focused on immediate problems, on topics with clear relevance, and by being involved in planning their instruction.

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Adult learning

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Adult Learning Theory, developed by Malcolm Knowles in 1968, proposes that adults learn differently than children. It outlines five assumptions about adult learners: that they are self-directed, draw on life experiences, are ready to learn subjects with immediate relevance, are problem-centered, and are internally motivated. The theory also describes four principles of adult learning: that adults learn best through experience, in a self-directed manner focused on immediate problems, on topics with clear relevance, and by being involved in planning their instruction.

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© All Rights Reserved
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98 views2 pages

5 Key Assumptions of Knowles' Adult Learning Theory

Uploaded by

Med Amine Naffeti
Adult Learning Theory, developed by Malcolm Knowles in 1968, proposes that adults learn differently than children. It outlines five assumptions about adult learners: that they are self-directed, draw on life experiences, are ready to learn subjects with immediate relevance, are problem-centered, and are internally motivated. The theory also describes four principles of adult learning: that adults learn best through experience, in a self-directed manner focused on immediate problems, on topics with clear relevance, and by being involved in planning their instruction.

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Adult learning

Developed by Malcolm Knowles in 1968, Adult Learning Theory or andragogy is


described by its creator as the art and science of helping adults learn. It’s the concept
of how adults learn and how it differs from children.

It aims to show how adult learning is distinct and identify the learning styles which
suit them best. Over the years, the theory has been added to and adapted. At its
core, it contains five key assumptions about adult learners and four principles of
andragogy. It’s a theory that is applicable for businesses in particular as it works well
for common training courses.

We’ve already covered the main assumptions of this theory when comparing adult
and child learners. And here are four principles of the andragogical approach:

 Adults learn better from experience (even


if they make mistakes).

 Adults favor a pragmatic approach and


must be able to apply learning to solve a
specific problem.

 Adults are most interested in learning


things that have immediate relevance.

 Adults need to be involved in the planning


and evaluation of their instruction.

5 Key Assumptions of Knowles’ Adult Learning Theory

1. Self-Concept

As we grow older, we shift from being dependent to being more independent.


Therefore, how we prefer to learn changes from being instructor-led to a more self-
directed approach.

2. Adult Learner Experience

Adults have lots of experience from which they draw knowledge and references. We
can take from these experiences and learn from them.

3. Readiness to Learn
Adults want or are ready to learn when there is a reason, such as when it’s directed
towards growth and development related to their work.

4. Orientation of Learning

As adults, we want what we are learning to be actually applicable to our everyday


lives, instead of being general learning about a subject. We want to learn practical
skills that help us solve problems and work better.

5. Motivation to Learn

As children, we learn because of external factors, like parents and teachers.


However, as adults we want to learn for our own reasons, for example, to progress in
work or to boost self-esteem.

Once we graduate, things are different. When adults choose to learn something, it is
because they see value in those things. For example, we might pick up a hobby
because we find it interesting or relaxing. Or we might learn a skill that will help us
advance in our careers. It’s our interests and ambitions that drive learning.

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