Adult Learning Theory Paper

This paper will evaluate the application of traditional and adult learning theories from the perspective of adult development and growth. There will be an evaluation of adult cognitive development discussed pertaining to adult learning. It will analyze accommodations for aging learners that are designed to maximize intelligence.
Evaluation of the Application of Traditional and Adult Learning Theories The evaluation of the application of traditional and adult learning theories will be made with the consideration of the different intelligence theories applicable to the relationships of dimensions of teaching and orientation to learning. It will include the locus of learning, the purpose of education, the role of a teacher, the learning process
Students learning to perform a skill that requires practical application represent the learning process exemplifying the cognitivist orientation. The moment the student performs the task correctly from the information inputted, it transfers to a learned capability. Age is a factor to be considered in the student’s ability to transfer the processed information to a learned capability; subsequently, crystallized and fluid intelligence changes as a person age. The fluid intelligence factor governed by the learner’s abstract reasoning, pattern recognition, and response speed is in line with the cognitivist orientation. The cognitivist orientation exemplifies problem-based learning, which a person seeks information about the problem to gain better insight of the problem. Adult learners prefer problem-based learning above other learning; henceforth, it lends itself to immediate application that in turn solidifies the learning (Merriam & Bierema,
When aging learners are given the opportunity to choose to learn, they will be more motivated to learn. Educators should incorporate needs assessments and relate the content of programs to the application needs of the aging learner; subsequently, their speed of learning will decrease with their age while their depth of learning will increase. This is a characteristic of crystallized and fluid intelligence. Aging learners need to be given advance notice about assignment due dates and extended deadlines when personal circumstances arise beyond their control involving their family or job. Aging learners ability to learn can be hampered by changes in their vision and/or hearing; therefore, educators should focus sound and lighting when dealing with the adult learner. The physical learning environment is important to aging learners; therefore educators must accommodate their inability to learn in a normal