Adult Learning and Development
Exploring disparate philosophies and applications of adult education practice can help identify principles for more effectively facilitating perpetual learning that benefits adult learners and society. Emerging research shows that adults have an amazing capacity to learn at all stages of life and that adult education practice provides a broad array of possibilities for enriching individuals' lives while meeting society's needs.
No single approach or theory seems to address the diverse abilities and needs of adult learners adequately, the multiple missions of institutions, and the changing needs of society. Rather than imposing myopic philosophy and ideology, adult educators can be more effective by adapting practice to the dynamically interacting needs of the student and the environment.
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- Written by Brent Duncan, PhD
In online education, time management skills can make or break success. Some embrace a “weekend warrior” mindset, cramming work into tight windows just in time to complete assignments. Others pace their efforts across each online week. But which approach truly works? In an internal research project at an online university, we uncovered a clear link between engagement timing and academic outcomes. Supported by broader studies, the findings reveal that just-in-time management carries steep risks—especially in complex courses—while consistent effort paves the way for mastery and resilience.
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- Written by Brent Duncan, PhD
Online learning success hinges on more than completing tasks—it’s about when and how you engage. Research shows that cramming near deadlines risks failure, while paced effort builds mastery and resilience. The following tips, inspired by evidence on timing and academic outcomes, offer a roadmap to thrive in virtual classrooms. From planning early to harnessing stress as a strength, these strategies transform education into a foundation for lifelong achievement, not a race against the clock.
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- Written by Brent Duncan, PhD
A transforming economy and personal motivation for growth are making learning a “permanent condition” [1, p. 23] for Americans. Economically, many workers must continuously upgrade their skills and knowledge to maintain employment, let alone remain competitive for paying jobs. Likewise, employers must constantly adapt their workforces and processes to an increasingly dynamic environment.
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- Written by Brent Duncan, PhD
Adult education pioneer Malcolm S. Knowles [2] observed that the foundation of the Western education system is built on “the art and science of teaching children.” However, the great teachers of history have been teachers of adults, not children. Aristotle, Confucius, the Buddha, Christ, the Hebrew prophets, and Plato used processes of active inquiry that contrast significantly with the passive reception model that dominates traditional education.
