Adult Learning: Linking Theory and Practice

Filling a gap in the current literature, Adult Learning: Linking Theory and Practice offers an overview of the major theories and research in adult learning. Written in highly accessible language and designed to be practical for use in both formal and informal settings, this important resource reviews the forces that influence today's adult learner including globalization, the knowledge society, technology, and demographic changes. Comprehensive in scope, the book summarizes five foundational learning theories and then examines the more recent breakthrough theories of adult learning such as andragogy and transformative learning.

Sharan Merriam and Laura Bierema present an understanding of how life experiences and learning are integrally related and review the role of motivation and learning. They also include some of the exciting new work in neuroscience and learning and explore the brain's cognitive functioning including memory, intelligence, cognitive development, and wisdom. In addition, the authors address the pervasiveness of technology and reveal how the influence of our digital age both engages and distracts our ability to learn.

At the end of each chapter, Adult Learning: Linking Theory and Practice offers activities and resources for readers to explore their own learning as well as to use in instructional settings.