When psychologist David Kolb studied how adults learn he found that when they undertook to learn something through their own initiative, they started with a concrete experience. Then they made observations about the experience, reflected on it and diagnosed what new knowledge or skill they needed to acquire in order to perform more effectively. Then, with the help of material and human resources, they formulated abstract concepts and generalizations from which they could deduce what to do next. Finally, they tested their concepts and generalizations in new situations. The experiential learning theory which Kolb developed from this research sees learning as a cyclical and lifelong process.
Adults learn by being with people who are enthusiastic about learning.
A critical factor influencing successful learning is the relationship between learners and tutors. The use of learner-centred materials will ensure that the information is meaningful to the learner and that he will use it. Adults have a lot of knowledge and life experience. They just have to learn the printed symbols for the words and concepts they already know. Adults learn best if they are actively involved in making decisions about their learning.