{"id":26187,"date":"2021-05-06T13:58:36","date_gmt":"2021-05-06T19:58:36","guid":{"rendered":"http:\/\/corevalues.com\/?p=26187"},"modified":"2021-05-06T13:58:36","modified_gmt":"2021-05-06T19:58:36","slug":"how-to-teach-adult-learners-through-learning-circles","status":"publish","type":"post","link":"https:\/\/corevalues.com\/dev\/2021\/05\/06\/how-to-teach-adult-learners-through-learning-circles\/","title":{"rendered":"How To Teach Adult Learners Through Learning Circles"},"content":{"rendered":"<p>Today the term <em>learning circle <\/em>is actively used to describe adult learning as a group so that open discussion occurs.\u00a0\u00a0 Instead of the traditional form of group meetings,it&#8217;s a progressive learning experience that meets social needs and addresses how to teach adult learners through learning circles and apply what is learned to the job.<\/p>\n<p>As the adage goes, learning is a never-ending process.\u00a0 <a href=\"https:\/\/corevalues.com\/tigers-among-us-book-club-kit\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">Continuous learning guarantees opportunities<\/a>.\u00a0 In the workplace, it helps employees adapt to required skills.\u00a0 It also allows flexibility in the sense that if an employee leaves, others could easily fill in the gap.\u00a0 For the employee, adding continuous learning becomes their force to move ahead.<\/p>\n<blockquote><p>Continuous learning through learning circles is a concept where team members and employees are given the opportunity to make learning a part of their work.\u00a0It\u2019s all about getting into the habit of developing skills and\u00a0knowledge to become more proficient in their job.<\/p><\/blockquote>\n<p>Unfortunately, continuous learning can only be possible if employees are EAGER to learn and grow their skills at an INDIVIDUAL LEVEL.\u00a0 \u00a0\u00a0This can be quite a challenge for adults learning a new skill and one reason why learning circles are so successful.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/learn.corevalues.com\/\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignleft wp-image-26047 size-large\" src=\"https:\/\/corevalues.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/Presentation2-1024x576.png\" alt=\"SDL\" width=\"1024\" height=\"576\" \/><\/a><\/p>\n<h2><\/h2>\n<h2><\/h2>\n<h2><\/h2>\n<h2><\/h2>\n<h2><\/h2>\n<h2><\/h2>\n<h2><\/h2>\n<h2><\/h2>\n<h2><\/h2>\n<h2><\/h2>\n<h2>What does research tell us about age and learning circles?<\/h2>\n<p>A large body of research on aging reveals that as we grow older, neural connections that receive, process, and transmit information weaken from age or lack of use.\u00a0 It does take a little longer to absorb new information.\u00a0 It\u2019ll be quite the challenge to think quickly and reaction times can be significantly slower. Discussions in Learning Circles, however,\u00a0 help everyone assimilate new learning through discussion and examples.<\/p>\n<p>Further, research also tells us that older people find it harder to multitask and retain information.\u00a0 Words, concepts, and names can easily turn into tip-of-the-tongue instances.\u00a0 An older individual is also easily distracted and more prone to errors.<\/p>\n<p>Unsettling? Yes.<\/p>\n<p>Is the future for adult learners bleak?\u00a0 Absolutely NOT.<\/p>\n<p>Learning circles reduce difficulties that are overcome with a training program, book discussion or debriefings on training received that fits the adult groups\u2019 learning style, as well as work culture.<\/p>\n<p>To maximize your company or organization\u2019s training program, it would be beneficial to know a few adult learning theories.<strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<h2>What are adult learning theories?<\/h2>\n<p>Adult learning theories are models with the consistent idea that adults learn differently from children.<\/p>\n<p>The difference in learning between adults and children are as follows:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Adults have the capability to self-direct, solve problems, and learn new concepts. Children, on the other hand, need constant direction until they reach the age of conceptual thinking;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>With adults, the role of \u201cteacher\u201d may be filled by a mentor, coach, trainer, colleague, peer, or expert. With children, teachers play a central role in delivering knowledge and guiding learning activities;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>Adults are (or tend to be) more self-motivated. They now understand the value of education and have a concrete goal in mind when they return to or begin studying.\u00a0 Children, on the other hand, need a higher level of engagement since they are naturally less motivated in learning settings.\u00a0 They have no choice but to study and may lose enthusiasm if engagement is poor;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>Adults are better able to tap into their existing knowledge to grasp newer concepts. Children, on the other hand, approach a new idea\/topic entirely blank.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>The following theories highlight the idea that training programs must be developed with the adult capability to be effective.\u00a0\u00a0\u00a0 There isn\u2019t one unified adult learning theory.\u00a0 But utilized on its own or in combination with another, learning can be maximized.<\/p>\n<ol>\n<li>ANDRAGOGY<\/li>\n<li>SELF-DIRECTED LEARNING<\/li>\n<li>TRANSFORMATIONAL LEARNING<\/li>\n<li>EXPERIENTIAL LEARNING<\/li>\n<li>PROJECT-BASED LEARNING<\/li>\n<li>ACTION LEARNING<\/li>\n<li>BEHAVIORISM<\/li>\n<li>COGNITIVISM<\/li>\n<li>CONSTRUCTIVISM<\/li>\n<li>SOCIAL LEARNING THEORY<\/li>\n<\/ol>\n<p><strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<h2>ANDRAGOGY<\/h2>\n<p>If pedagogy is the art and science of teaching children, Andragogy is the art and science of teaching adults. Developed in 1968 by Malcolm Knowles, the Andragogy theory proposes that the adult learner:<\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Can direct their own learning;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>Uses own knowledge and life experiences to learn a new concept or skill;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>Is readily engaged \/ present when the material is relevant to them;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>Wants to apply the new information almost immediately to solve real-life problems;<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>Prefers to have a voice in the planning and evaluation of their learning experience<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<p>Learning Circles address each of these adult learner criteria.<strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3>How is this type of learning conducted?<\/h3>\n<p>The instructor creates a space that welcomes COLLABORATION.\u00a0 Materials are relevant to the learner\u2019s needs, as well.\u00a0 The teacher must clearly demonstrate why the lesson is important.\u00a0 Real-world examples are indispensable.\u00a0 Last but not least, learning is arrived at by DOING, rather than mere repetition or memorization.<\/p>\n<p>Organizations or companies can best utilize this training method by presenting common problems participants encounter in their role and then assisting them develop solutions.<strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3>Who is this adult learning theory suited for?<\/h3>\n<p>Andragogy is best suited for those who are self-motivated or are in a structured, goal-oriented program (such as learning to solve specific problems).<strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p><strong>This isn\u2019t recommended for\u2026\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Adult learners who either value a classroom setup over alternative learning.\u00a0 The learning circle, however, does provide opportunities to meet face-to-face or in online affinity groups where discussions based on personal experience as well as sharing wins on the material learned further deepen what was learned.\u00a0<strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<h2>SELF \u2013 DIRECTED LEARNING<\/h2>\n<p>Also known as SDL, this learning theory builds on Malcolm Knowles\u2019 Andragogy. SDL was developed in 1997 by D.R. Garrison and occasionally includes concepts on self-management.\u00a0 Here, the adult learner:<strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<ul>\n<li>Sets learning goals. He finds his own learning material and creates a learning plan.\u00a0 They evaluate their results.\u00a0 In short, the adult learner takes the initiative to understand what they need to learn;<strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>Finds those knowledgeable who can best help them \u2013 peers, resource speakers, teachers, mentors;<strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<ul>\n<li>Responds positively to being in control of their learning process.<\/li>\n<\/ul>\n<h3>How is this type of learning conducted?<\/h3>\n<p>The facilitator merely acts as a guide or source of encouragement.\u00a0<strong>\u00a0<\/strong><\/p>\n<h3>Who is this adult learning theory suited for?<\/h3>\n<p>SDL is best suited for self-motivated learners and those who respond well to technology-based learning.<\/p>\n<p>Use this method if the topics have clear, concrete, black and white answers.\u00a0 No gray areas.\u00a0 For instance, a learner might see the need to learn a new language.\u00a0 Self-directed learning would lead them to seek the appropriate apps, reading material, forums, and conversation groups that enhance learning.\u00a0 Progress is at their own pace.<\/p>\n<p><strong>This isn\u2019t recommended for\u2026<\/strong><\/p>\n<p>Learners who have low literacy skills or low self-confidence.\u00a0 This type of learning, however, can still be made part of a blended training program especially if upskilling is involved. If so, learning circles are very appropriate for discussion groups and to further address what works and what does not work from the point of diverse learners.<\/p>\n<p><em>(to be continued)<\/em><\/p>\n<p>Copyright TIGERS Success Series, Inc. by Dianne Crampton<\/p>\n<h2>About TIGERS Success Series<\/h2>\n<p>TIGERS provides a comprehensive, multi-pronged and robust system for improving your collaborative workforce behavior, collaborative work culture, profitability, project management and team leadership success. We license existing coaches, consultants and HR professionals in the use of these tools.<\/p>\n<p><a href=\"https:\/\/learn.corevalues.com\/courses\/6-principles-that-build-high-performance-teams\" rel=\"attachment wp-att-26053\"><img loading=\"lazy\" decoding=\"async\" loading=\"lazy\" class=\"alignleft wp-image-26053 \" src=\"https:\/\/zj3fwy98pqns.cdn.shift8web.ca\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/6-principles-lead-generation-webinar-300x169.png\" sizes=\"auto, (max-width: 389px) 100vw, 389px\" srcset=\"https:\/\/corevalues.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/6-principles-lead-generation-webinar-300x169.png 300w, https:\/\/corevalues.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/6-principles-lead-generation-webinar-1024x576.png 1024w, https:\/\/corevalues.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/6-principles-lead-generation-webinar-768x432.png 768w, https:\/\/corevalues.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/6-principles-lead-generation-webinar-1080x608.png 1080w, https:\/\/corevalues.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/6-principles-lead-generation-webinar-980x551.png 980w, https:\/\/corevalues.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/6-principles-lead-generation-webinar-480x270.png 480w, https:\/\/corevalues.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/6-principles-lead-generation-webinar-400x225.png 400w, https:\/\/corevalues.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/6-principles-lead-generation-webinar-510x287.png 510w, https:\/\/corevalues.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/2021\/01\/6-principles-lead-generation-webinar.png 1280w\" alt=\"\" width=\"389\" height=\"219\" \/><\/a>We specialize in building cooperation among employees and collaboration between departments for profitable, agile, and high performance team outcomes.\u00a0 Scaled to\u00a0 grow as your organization and leadership performance improves, our proprietary\u00a0<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/learn.corevalues.com\/courses\/6-principles-that-build-high-performance-teams\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">TIGERS Workforce<\/a><a href=\"http:\/\/www.tigerssuccessseries.com\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">\u00a0Behavior Profile<\/a>,<a href=\"https:\/\/corevalues.com\/tigers-micro-training-solutions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">\u00a0Micro-Training technology and group facilitation\u00a0<\/a><a href=\"https:\/\/corevalues.com\/tigers-micro-training-solutions\/\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener noreferrer\">methods result in your\u00a0<\/a><\/strong>high performance team outcomes and change management success.<\/p>\n<p>Here is a\u00a0<strong><a href=\"https:\/\/learn.corevalues.com\/courses\/6-principles-that-build-high-performance-teams\" target=\"_blank\" rel=\"noopener\">complimentary 30 minute webinar on the TIGERS 6 Principles<\/a>.<\/strong> Course Certificate for Completion.<\/p>\n","protected":false},"excerpt":{"rendered":"<p>Today the term learning circle is actively used to describe adult learning as a group so that open discussion occurs.\u00a0\u00a0 Instead of the traditional form of group meetings,it&#8217;s a progressive learning experience that meets social needs and addresses how to teach adult learners through learning circles and apply what is learned to the job. As [&hellip;]<\/p>\n","protected":false},"author":2,"featured_media":0,"comment_status":"open","ping_status":"open","sticky":false,"template":"","format":"standard","meta":{"nf_dc_page":"","footnotes":""},"categories":[264,811],"tags":[399,83,945],"class_list":["post-26187","post","type-post","status-publish","format-standard","hentry","category-employee-engagement","category-employee-management","tag-employee-development","tag-learning-opportunities","tag-microlearning"],"_links":{"self":[{"href":"https:\/\/corevalues.com\/dev\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/26187","targetHints":{"allow":["GET"]}}],"collection":[{"href":"https:\/\/corevalues.com\/dev\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts"}],"about":[{"href":"https:\/\/corevalues.com\/dev\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/types\/post"}],"author":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/corevalues.com\/dev\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/users\/2"}],"replies":[{"embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/corevalues.com\/dev\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/comments?post=26187"}],"version-history":[{"count":0,"href":"https:\/\/corevalues.com\/dev\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/posts\/26187\/revisions"}],"wp:attachment":[{"href":"https:\/\/corevalues.com\/dev\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/media?parent=26187"}],"wp:term":[{"taxonomy":"category","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/corevalues.com\/dev\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/categories?post=26187"},{"taxonomy":"post_tag","embeddable":true,"href":"https:\/\/corevalues.com\/dev\/wp-json\/wp\/v2\/tags?post=26187"}],"curies":[{"name":"wp","href":"https:\/\/api.w.org\/{rel}","templated":true}]}}