5.4 Chapter Summary

While many aspects of human cognition, and thus of teaching and learning, are similar for children and adults, there are many theories and models that focus on what makes adult learning unique.  Andragogy emphasizes the life experience and self-directed behavior of adults, community of practice explores how learning occurs informally through goal-directed social interaction, and transformative learning emphasizes adults’ potential for transformation through deep reflection. These theories improve the ability of educational technologists and instructional designers to create appropriate learning experiences for learners of all ages.