Below are the Learner Factors critical to adult learning. Hover to see how these factors connect across the whole learner. Then click to find out how each factor impacts learning and explore strategies that support it. Read more about this model.
Digital Literacy and Oral Communication Skills are critical to pursuing opportunities in the workforce and everyday life.
Problem Solving skills encompass both critical thinking and creativity, which allow adults to evaluate evidence and generate novel solutions.
Adults are independent learners who may have complex reasons for setting and persisting at learning goals.
Adults bring many assets to their learning including extensive Background Knowledge, but they may not recognize the value of that knowledge.
Having greater emotional, cognitive, and Physical Well-being can positively impact learning; in turn, engaging in learning can improve adults’ life satisfaction and outcomes such as income and social capital.
Adults can face barriers to learning stemming from their Socioeconomic Status, lack of Social Supports, or Adverse Experiences, including negative past experiences with schooling.
Engaging in lifelong learning activities is interconnected with general well-being.
View Theme 3Digital Literacy and Oral Communication Skills are critical to pursuing opportunities in the workforce and everyday life.
Problem Solving skills encompass both critical thinking and creativity, which allow adults to evaluate evidence and generate novel solutions.
Adults are independent learners who may have complex reasons for setting and persisting at learning goals.
Adults bring many assets to their learning including extensive Background Knowledge, but they may not recognize the value of that knowledge.
Having greater emotional, cognitive, and Physical Well-being can positively impact learning; in turn, engaging in learning can improve adults’ life satisfaction and outcomes such as income and social capital.
Adults can face barriers to learning stemming from their Socioeconomic Status, lack of Social Supports, or Adverse Experiences, including negative past experiences with schooling.