They see life less idealistically and more as a set of realities. They like to see theory applied to practical problems. Adults have more experience. They have insights and see relationships not discerned by children. They have a sense of what is likely to work and a sense of accumulated wisdom.
Differences increase with age and mobility.
Therefore, adults come from a wider variety of backgrounds and intelligence levels than youth. Adult Learners Are not beginners but are in a continual state of growth. Bring with them a package of experiences and values, each one unique. Adult learners are usually self-directed. Come to education with intentions.