Acquiring new skills as an adult is different from classroom education in childhood. Adult learners have busy schedules, career responsibilities, and cognitive patterns that require tailored learning strategies. However, adults possess key advantages: they are self-motivated, goal-oriented, and have professional experience they can reference. Here are the core principles of adult learning psychology.
Developed by educator Malcolm Knowles, Andragogy is the study of adult learning:
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To keep adult learners engaged, focus on hands-on applications:
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As an adult, starting a new subject puts you in a position of complete beginner status, which can trigger insecurity and imposter syndrome.
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Adult learning is self-directed, goal-oriented, and practical. Understanding these psychological principles allows tutors to design mentoring sessions that align with how adults acquire and retain new skills.