Some instruction must be designed to effect a change in belief and value systems. Nonhuman media such as books, programmed instruction and television have become popular with adults in recent years. Regardless of media, straightforward how-to is the preferred content orientation. Adults cite a need for application and how-to information as the primary motivation for beginning a learning project. Self-direction does not mean isolation.
Adults have something real to lose in a classroom situation.
Self-esteem and ego are on the line when they are asked to risk trying a new behavior in front of peers and cohorts. Bad experiences in traditional education, feelings about authority and the preoccupation with events outside the classroom affect in-class experience. Adults have expectations, and it is critical to take time early on to clarify and articulate all expectations before getting into content. The instructor can assume responsibility only for his or her own expectations, not for those of students. Adults bring a great deal of life experience into the classroom, an invaluable asset to be acknowledged, tapped and used.