Adult Learning Theories

The term learning is often associated with learning in the classroom or at school settings. However, learning outside of formal educational institutions has long been documented for its unique contribution to educating those who may not have access, means, or time due to life or societal circumstances.

[Page 92]In fact, adult education as a field of practice emerged in the late 19th century with night schools in the U.S. context. As the society continues to change, ensuring adults have equal rights to quality education and receive training for the workforce in the 1960s prompted legislative statutes in many states, and eventually at a federal level.

In addition to providing access to adults beyond the age of a traditional college student, adult learning continues to grow as individuals ...