This article provides an overview of adult learning theory, focusing on the theories covered in this issue of New Directions in Adult and Continuing Education. In offering a brief synopsis of each article and reflecting on the ways adult learning theories have evolved since the first update was published in 1993, this article explains several…

This study investigates the current use of artificial intelligence (AI) for peer-to-peer support through a bibliometric analysis of 1113 records based on co-words. The research employs a four-phase exploratory design that involves co-word search, data charting, and result summation. It uses an inductive, relevant, and reflexive thematic approach…

The aim of this study is to explore the possibility of introducing the general notions of function and inverse function through a mathematical activity on linear functions, focusing on the quantitative meaning associated to the connection between a relation and its inverse. We present a genetic decomposition, that is, a viable cognitive path for…

Self-determination theory is one of the most established motivational theories both within second language learning and beyond. This theory has generated several mini-theories, namely: organismic integration theory, cognitive evaluation theory, basic psychological needs theory, goal contents theory, causality orientations theory, and relationships…

Self-efficacy is essential for persistence in learning across formal education. There are few subjects in formal education that demand more persistence than learning a new language. Researchers have noted this intersection, resulting in a burgeoning body of research examining self-efficacy's role within foreign/second (L2) classroom language…

This article examines the global transformation of undergraduate legal education through the analytical lens of transformative learning theory, with a particular focus on how practice-oriented reforms contribute to Sustainable Development Goals (SDGs) 4 (Quality Education) and 16 (Peace, Justice, and Strong Institutions). Using China as a central…

This research examined vocational education and training (VET) teachers' understanding of how people learn, and how they cater to the learning needs and preferences of their students across a range of different contexts. It found that most VET teachers use a similar overarching strategy in their teaching that aims to enable a diversity of students…

An exponential increase in the availability of information over the last two decades has asked for novel theoretical frameworks to examine how students optimally learn under these new learning conditions, given the limitations of human processing ability. In this special issue and in the current editorial introduction, we argue that such a novel…

Background/Context: In recent years, the humanities have frequently been described as "under attack" or "in crisis" in both popular media and academic writing. In this climate, it is particularly critical to develop a stronger understanding of the value of the humanities. While there are many theoretical arguments about their…

The COVID-19 pandemic changed how organizational leaders managed their staff and handled operations. As those operational changes were implemented, the experiential learning theory (ELT) was practiced by the leaders, staff, and human resource development (HRD) practitioners. In general, employees' operational practices were created to work in a…

Leader development serves as a strong focus in the mission statements of many business school programs. Looking at business school leader development programs through the lens of adult learning theory, we assert that there is an overreliance on cognitive training (e.g., lecture) as the primary form of education used in preparing future business…

Hand hygiene is critical for infection control, but studies report poor transfer from training to practice. Hand hygiene training in hospitals typically involves one classroom session per year, but psychomotor skills require repetition and feedback for retention. We describe the design and independent evaluation of a mobile interactive augmented…

The purpose of this study was to examine school-level learning of post-1994 instructional reforms via the lens of organizational learning theory (OLT) in a sample primary school. Data were collected from three teachers, a school principal and head of Woreda Education Office (WEO) using interviews. Besides, data were collected from review of…

Integrating the two dominant theories of self-regulated learning (SRL) and cognitive engagement could advance our understanding of what makes students more efficient, effective learners. An integration of these theories has yet to be explored, and this paper addresses this gap by proposing a novel integrative model of SRL engagement. Specifically,…

Tensions between constructivist learning theories and objectivist learning theories in online courses implicate a need for a theoretical balance. This article describes organizing and enacting tasks that elicit constructivist learning of mathematics in an online mathematics teacher education course. The results focus on a conceptual framework that…