A study explored learners' understanding of their own changing perceptions as they study the theory and research of aging and track their development in personal journals. The writings of 280 graduate and undergraduate students in gerontology classes, aged 18-75, were analyzed for personal assessments of their own learning. Among the themes that…

This book offers perspectives for understanding adult learners and suggests in practical ways based on current development theory how higher education professionals can work more effectively to improve the quality of the educational experience for these students. Using the metaphor of a journey, the book explores the process of adult learning in…

Until very recently, with the exception of adult religious education, spirituality has been given little attention in mainstream academic adult education. This may be because spirituality is difficult to define and can be confused with religion. The subject of spirituality is currently a theme in workplace and human resource development…

This paper compares and contrasts the author's adult learning experiences with those of another adult learner in order to understand the inter-relationship between the domains of education and "work and love" (Merriam, 1993) imbedded in adult development theory. The author interviewed a female colleague of similar age and place of…

This article tells the story of policies relevant to education, ageism and older adults between 1999 and 2005. It follows an article published in a previous "New Zealand Journal of Adult Learning" that described and critiqued policy developments between the 1980s and 2001. The story is located in the context of ongoing historical…

The aim of this paper is to describe and critique key policies and policy documents relevant to older adults' learning and education from the 1980s to 2001. It describes relevant aspects of the historical struggles between competing discourses and ideologies which took place during the period. It then examines the impact of these struggles on the…

The profession of teaching has become increasingly important in nonschool settings such as business and industry. Colleges of education are appropriate for preparing business and industry trainers. Such a program would include the study of: (1) human relations skills; (2) effective communication; (3) business administration; and (4) psychology.…

Greece's adult education enterprise is well-organized, well-thought-out, and well-grounded. A sound philosophical, theoretical, and conceptual foundation supports its operational components. A unique feature is its blend of centralization and decentralization: centralized policy and guidance and decentralized decision making and autonomy over…

A description is given of an experimental program at Loretto Heights College which is designed for adult learners who are considering a return to school. It is concluded that the changing nature of adult's lives and their growth and development cycles offer a powerful base for quality adult education programs. (JSR)

Suggests that financial constraints and demographic trends will force a significant change in college planning within the next three years. Argues that continuing education managers, with their background in assessment, development, and evaluation, can assume a leadership role in planning and effecting the critical changes facing universities in…

Ways to improve delivery of television instruction to adults, particularly basic education, must consider the needs, attitudes, and capacities of adult learners, such as small focused lesson units, interaction with instruction, self-pacing, paraprofessional tutoring, and perception of program relevance. Some projects and research in television…

Describes the American lyceum movement in the nineteenth century, which embodied many principles now included in adult learning theory. The lyceum was a sort of adult learning center, mostly at the village level, which used the lecture-teaching-learning approach with community study circles to share experience and knowledge. (MF)

Both the content and process of graduate education promote adult development. Graduate programs, particularly nontraditional programs, can both address the growing adult and uphold relevant standards of intellectual excellence and professional expertise. Life phases, developmental stages, and learning styles are three domains that are described.…

Reviews characteristics of the increasing number of older adults in the United States, examining the role of community colleges in providing the educational activities they need. Discusses common learning styles of adult students and suggests teaching strategies. Presents considerations for improving institutional outreach to older adults. (12…

Outlines recommended practices for strengthening administrator preparation programs. Preservice programs should emphasize development of reflective skills; ethical and moral leadership qualities; adult learning principles; coherent, integrated curricula; and updated teaching and learning processes. Aspiring principals need more opportunities for…