Designing Instruction for Adult Learners
Summary
Whatever inspires them to seek further education, it is up to you as an instructional designer to develop courses that fit the learning styles of adult learners. Some of these students will study in a traditional classroom, while others will complete online courses through their company’s learning management system. If they believe that education will advance their status on the job, improve their self-esteem, or achieve a better quality of life, they are more determined to complete the work. Some students might be more successful if they could replay videos, perform more practice sessions before continuing the lesson, or choose the order in which work is done. When you understand how adults learn, you can design courses that will keep them motivated to continue their quest for knowledge and reach their goals.