Balancing the need for separation and connection is an ongoing challenge for adults. Theories by Erikson, Peck, Kegan, and others attempt to resolve the tensions that have implications for adult learning. (SK)

Addresses Courtenay's reservations about adult development models by arguing that different models evince underlying similarities; development that is not fully achieved need not imply abnormality; and more developmentally advanced adults need not be considered "more worthy." Suggests that models offer support, encouragement, and hope to…

Self-assessment leads to greater awareness of the methods one uses to make meaning. It enhances responsibility, self-direction, shifts in perception, and self-questioning. (SK)

When assessment of prior learning is used to teach self-reflection, it encourages developmental growth. Techniques that support development include goals statements, autobiographies, and experiential learning essays. (SK)

For most reentry women students, development entails a shift from identifying themselves in terms of their psychological surroundings to authoring and authorizing their own identity. Reentry women need both self-direction and supports that promote development. (SK)

Three strands of practice and theory--adult learning, women's development, and feminist pedagogy--contribute to development of a learning environment attuned to women's needs. Instead of concentrating on information storage/retrieval, alternative education should focus on requiring fourth-level consciousness: ability to choose how, whether, and…

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

This book is designed to influence adult educators to make more intentional choices toward developmental growth in their work with adult learners. Part 1 provides a rationale for attending to developmental growth of adult learners and a framework of intentions to encourage such development. Chapter 1 describes characteristics of adult learners and…

The process of change experienced by adult women reentering higher education is analyzed within the framework of one theory of adult development, and teaching and learning environments that support women's developmental growth are described. Topics addressed include providing adult students with positive feedback, counseling, promoting awareness…