Adult Learning Principles and Factors Impacting Adult Learning

Running head: ADULT LEARNING
ADULT LEARNING
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1ADULT LEARNING
Introduction
Adult learning can be defined as ‘the entire range of formal, informal, non-formal
learning activities that are undertaken by adult people after they have taken a break from their
primary education and training. The purpose of adult learning is the acquisition of new
knowledge and skills. It is not hard to understand that adults are faced with several problems that
are the result of rapid changes in the pattern of life. Therefore, adult learning aims to help the
adult gain a new set of skills and knowledge. However, although it is similar to any education
system, there are certain factors that make adult learning different. It involves extra skills and
knowledge regarding the ways adults learn. The paper aims to explore adult learning principles
and the factors that impact adult learning.
Adult learning:
According to the European Commission, adult learning is referred to all forms of learning
undertaken by adults after they have left their initial education as well as training. It is interesting
to note that adult learning is one of the most diverse lifelong learning sectors. However, it is
complex and heterogeneous. In Europe, adult learning is a vast, fragmented and diverse. Also, it
is different from member state to member state. While some learning occurs in short episodes,
some learning consists of courses that take over a full year or even longer (Brockett & Hiemstra,
2018). It is provided by private, public or voluntary sectors. It can be performed through face-to-
face, online communities or even through personal projects. Adult learning is also a way to
provide opportunities for people to improve their confidence, develop new interest and well-
being. Helping children with studies and building confidence while interacting with people are
also achieved through adult learning (Busse, Aboneh & Tefera, 2014). It offers personal choices,

2ADULT LEARNING
personal empowerment, and personal responsibility by engaging people in their interest in
classes that are welcoming and relaxing for adults. Adult learning has been beneficial for many
people who have learned many things and realised their full potential.
Significant learning moment:
Since I was brought up in an area with people from various culture, I was very familiar
with the different culture. I never really found anything surprising or astonishing that involved
rituals or customs. I was very aware of the fact that different people have different ways of living
and that is the most comfortable. Getting my first job outside my hometown was undoubtedly
challenging, however, the more challenging situation was when I was among people who have
similar thinking. I was a person who would place relationships before business. In the beginning,
it was very challenging, and often I was under the reassure of making tough choices. I was
beginning to lose confidence when I realised my ability to think in a different perspective is my
strength and not weakness. I utilised my knowledge of speaking a different language and
communicated with the clients and observed them pleased. I hardly thought that my relationship
with people from a different culture would be beneficial in my workplace. It was then onwards I
realised the importance of being in an uncomfortable situation, it helps to recognise own
potential.
Incidental Learning:
Learning is often considered finished when formal education comes to an end. However,
learning does not stop, and it is carried on throughout life. Most of the eLearning happened
through experience and no formal education. Incidental learning is one such form of learning that
is considered outside formal teaching environment. Incidental learning is when something is