ABSTRACT
The field of adult education is broad and diverse, and the subjects and areas that it includes have rapidly increased over past decades. Educators enter the field through a variety of pathways with one clear connector – a desire to create and implement effective adult education programming. However, the path to developing successful adult education programming can be challenging and requires an orientation to the unique needs of adult learners. This chapter discusses core principles that ground effective adult learning experiences and illustrates the connection of theoretical approaches with the development and facilitation of effective adult-focused activities. Core principles are examined through three adult education theories: self-directed, transformational, and experiential learning. After providing a vignette, the authors illustrate what might happen in an adult learning situation using each theory. In addition, the chapter examines how learner-centered lenses affect teaching and learning. Finally, the chapter highlights the importance of educator engagement in the practice of lifelong learning and continual self-improvement.
