The New Normal: Adult Online Learners

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Author(s): Simona Laurian-Fitzgerald (University of Oradea, Romania), Carlton J. Fitzgerald (New England College, USA), Carmen Alina Popa (University of Oradea, Romania)and Laura Bochis (University of Oradea, Romania)
Copyright: 2021
Pages: 33
Source title: Research Anthology on Adult Education and the Development of Lifelong Learners
Source Author(s)/Editor(s): Information Resources Management Association (USA)
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-7998-8598-6.ch005

Keywords: Adult Learning / Curriculum Development and Instructional Design / Education / Information Science Reference

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Abstract

Adult learners are different from younger learners. Many have taken Knowles' ideas to work with adult learners as if they all are the same. Knowles described adult learners as more self-directed, willing to be responsible for what they do, unwilling to have teachers impose arbitrary information on them, ready to learn, task oriented, and experienced. Prather adds many adults have more immediate goals for their lives and careers. Kenner and Weinerman find adults want more collaborative relationships with professors. Adult students are unique and come to classes from a variety of backgrounds and circumstances, with different needs, wants, and learning preferences. Many students are prepared for college, while others are petrified. In this chapter, the authors argue that instructors should understand their students in order to help them be successful. Students are not alternative students; they are normal, intelligent people who can and will learn. Thus, the goal should be student-centered online learning.

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