Since 1980, a great deal of research has studied the characteristics of adult learners. Two main factors have driven this research. First, a more competitive global economy has increased the need for adults to learn new concepts and skills at a rapid pace. Much of this research has focused on the best ways to teach computer skills to adults. Although researchers disagree about the specific characteristics of adult learners, there is almost universal agreement about the concepts and techniques for designing effective instructional materials for adults.
Adults have a larger base of knowledge that can be used in learning new concepts and skills.
Adults have specific goals for learning. Adults want to apply what they learn right away. There's no doubt that many adults have these characteristics. Adults want to know what, and why, and how. If course material is not explained to their satisfaction, they feel justified in demanding further explanation.