The Science of Adult Learning Belongs in Early Childhood

Image of an adult from Fortis Academy conducting a science experiment; courtesy of HCDE Staff.

The practice of teaching adult learners lies in the basic fundamentals taught in early childhood education. Similar to early childhood education, Adult Education literacy programs address teaching the whole learner. Adult Education curriculum is built reflected in Malcolm Knowles, a pioneer in adult education belief that student learn best when:

  1. Adults understand why something is important to know or do.
  2. Adults have the freedom to learn in their own way.
  3. Learning is experiential.
  4. The time is right for them to learn.
  5. The education process is positive and encouraging.
    Likewise, early childhood learners and adult learners respond best to teaching methods that effectively address the importance of the lesson, combining activities centered around varied learning styles, experiential learning experiences, and consistent positive reinforcement. The Science of Adult Education belongs in Early Childhood.

Check out the website for The Science of Adult Learning.

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