This article considers the potential benefits of integrating the knowledge base on adult learning with teacher inquiry. The first part of the article provides an overview of key concepts discussed in the literature on adult learning, including the characteristics of adult learners, self-directed learning, experiential learning, transformative…

The most influential element in any educational system is to develop high- quality learners to effectively participate in their community. The body of research ascertains that Experiential Learning (EL) develops the learners' transferrable skills such as communication, responsibility, and social skills. Therefore, there is a push in adult…

This qualitative study employs transformative learning theory to investigate the learning experiences of 18 current students and graduates of Escuela Taller 'Gaspar de Melchor de Jovellanos' (ET) in Old Havana, Cuba. ET is a tuition-free, skilled-trades program that trains adult learners with limited economic resources and opportunities to…

Over the past decades, Learning & Development has become an area of growing interest and constant research. As a result, there is an abundance of studies and models that target the development of educators. However, the professional development of educators should be built on a comprehensive framework of research-based instructional strategies…

The 45th annual conference of the Adult and Higher Education Alliance (AHEA) was held virtually in March 2021. Papers in these proceedings include the following: (1) An Analysis of the Role of Communities of Practice in Transformational Learning during a Pandemic (Nighet Ahmed and Ava Tabb); (2) Using Children's Literature to Create a Culturally…

Narrative learning is strongly allied with transformational learning and adult development (Merriam, Caffarella, & Baumgartner, 2007), given that it creates context for adult meaning making. Through the use of narrative writing, adult students have the opportunity to engage multiple aspects of learning. Many colleges and universities allow…

The Commission on International Adult Education (CIAE) of the American Association for Adult and Continuing Education (AAACE) provides a forum for the discussion of international issues related to adult education in general, as well as adult education in various countries around the globe. These "Proceedings" are from the Commission of…

A case study of a graduate-level community literacy seminar that involved a tutoring project with adult digital literacy learners, this essay illustrates the value of community outreach and service-learning for graduate students in writing studies. Presenting multiple perspectives through critical reflection, student authors describe how their…

The purpose of this study was to explore the practice of Farmer-Field Schools (FFS) theoretically framed from the perspective of transformative learning theory and non-formal education (NFE). Farmer-Field Schools are community-led NFE programs that provide a platform where farmers meet regularly to study the "how and why" of farming and…

The "men's sheds" movement is a grassroots phenomenon that has engaged and inspired men from communities across Australia in hands-on, workshop-based social activity. This article seeks to "unwrap" one of several forms of learning that have been found to be enthusiastically embraced by older men previously thought of, almost…

The online educational environment is increasingly being used by adults and should be designed based on the needs of adult learners. This article discusses andragogy, an important adult learning theory, and reviews three other adult learning theories: self-directed learning, experiential learning, and transformational learning. During this…

Describes an organizational learning course based on transformative learning theory that illustrates approaches to developing constructive learning environments, enhancing team learning, examining mental models, supporting systems thinking, and achieving personal mastery. (SK)

A study created a model and instrument to determine and evaluate the factors that promote perspective transformation in the higher education classroom. The focus was the classroom setting, but other experiences and circumstances were recognized as being important determinants as well. An existing assessment model was used as the basis for…

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…