Learning in Adulthood

The new edition of the authoritative book in the field of adult education fully revised to reflect the latest research and practice implications. For nearly three decades, Learning in Adulthood has been the definitive guide in the field of adult education. Now in its fourth edition, this comprehensive volume is fully revised to reflect the latest developments in theory, research, and practice. The authors integrate foundational research and current knowledge to present fresh, original perspectives on teaching and learning in adulthood. Written by internationally-recognized experts, this market-leading guide draws from work in sociology, philosophy, critical social theory, psychology, and education to provide an inclusive overview of adult learning. Designed primarily for educators of adults, this book is accessible for readers new to adult education, yet suitably rigorous for those more familiar with the subject. Content is organized into four practical parts, covering topics such as the social context of adult learning, self-directed and transformational learning, postmodern and feminist perspectives, cognitive development in adulthood, and more. Offering the most comprehensive single-volume treatment of adult learning available, this landmark text: Offers a wide-ranging perspective on adult learning Synthesizes the latest thinking and work in the field Includes coverage of the sociocultural perspectives of adult learning Explores the broader social implications of adult education Learning in Adulthood: A Comprehensive Guide, 4th Edition is an indispensable resource for educators and administrators involved in teaching adults, as well as faculty and students in graduate programs in adult education.

The new edition of the authoritative book in the field of adult education -- fully revised to reflect the latest research and practice implications.For nearly three decades, Learning in Adulthood has been the definitive guide in the field of adult education. Now in its fourth edition, this comprehensive volume is fully revised to reflect the latest developments in theory, research, and practice. The authors integrate foundational research and current knowledge to present fresh, original perspectives on teaching and learning in adulthood. Written by internationally-recognized experts, this market-leading guide draws from work in sociology, philosophy, critical social theory, psychology, and education to provide an inclusive overview of adult learning.Designed primarily for educators of adults, this book is accessible for readers new to adult education, yet suitably rigorous for those more familiar with the subject. Content is organized into four practical parts, covering topics such as the social context of adult learning, self-directed and transformational learning, postmodern and feminist perspectives, cognitive development in adulthood, and more. Offering the most comprehensive single-volume treatment of adult learning available, this landmark text:* Offers a wide-ranging perspective on adult learning* Synthesizes the latest thinking and work in the field* Includes coverage of the sociocultural perspectives of adult learning* Explores the broader social implications of adult educationLearning in Adulthood: A Comprehensive Guide, 4th Edition is an indispensable resource for educators and administrators involved in teaching adults, as well as faculty and students in graduate programs in adult education.

Acknowledgments viiPreface ixAbout the Authors xvPart I: Adult Learning in Contemporary Society 1Chapter 1 The Social Context of Adult Learning 5Chapter 2 Adult Learning and Technology 26Chapter 3 Learning Environments and Learning Concepts 52Chapter 4 Adult Learners: Who Participates and Why 82Part II: Adult Learning Theory 113Chapter 5 Knowles's Andragogy and McClusky's Theory of Margin 117Chapter 6 Self-Directed Learning 137Chapter 7 Transformative Learning 166Chapter 8 Experience and Learning 196Part III: Newer Approaches to Adult Learning 229Chapter 9 Embodied, Spiritual, and Narrative Learning 233Chapter 10 Learning and Knowing: Eastern and Indigenous Perspectives 268Chapter 11 Critical Theory, Postmodern, and Feminist Perspectives 290Part IV: Learning and Development 317Chapter 12 Adult Development 321Chapter 13 Cognitive Development in Adulthood 346Chapter 14 Intelligence and Aging 375Chapter 15 Brain, Memory, and Cognition 409Chapter 16 Reflections on Learning in Adulthood 439References 459Name Index 541Subject Index 561