Mathematical dispositions, or an individual's behavioral (i.e., things they say and do), cognitive (i.e., attention and memory), and affective (i.e., emotions and beliefs) tendencies related to mathematics, are critical to the learning of mathematics and choices related to STEM. Previous research has suggested that adult learners may possess…

Situated cognition, the concept that learning is integrally situated in everyday activity, enables more accurate understanding of adult learning. Authentic activity, involving situations requiring actual rather than simulated cognitive processes, may be a better basis for adult education. (SK)

Discussion boards have the unique capacity to support higher-order constructivist learning and the development of a learning community, This chapter provides ten conditions that support the effective use of an online discussion.

The human brain is triune--controlling physical activity, emotion, and cognition. Strategies for dealing with the affective element, such as creating self-awareness, positive self-concept, trust, and acceptance, are important influences upon learning. (SK)

Cognitive apprenticeship teaches acceptable performance, integration of practical and theoretical knowledge, and understanding specific situations. Five phases are involved: modeling, approximating, fading, self-directed learning, and generalizing. (SK)

The brain, a pattern-finding organ, seeks to create meaning through establishing or refining existing neural networks; this is learning. Emotion affects what is learned and what is retained.

This chapter highlights the central role of experience in learning and consciousness; it also outlines experience-based instructional processes that adult educators can use. (Contains 1 figure.)

This chapter presents a brain-based model of adult learning and connects the model to practice.

The Atkinson-Shiffrin model of memory has three components: sensory, short term, and long term. Each memory process (such as encoding, storage, and retrieval) can be linked to specific teaching and learning strategies. (SK)

This chapter is an introduction to how the learning process changes the brain, with special attention to the facilitative role of the adult educator/mentor.

Recent discoveries about brain function explain how best practices in adult learning may lead to adult learners' developmental growth.