Adult Learning Theories: Optimized, Transformative, And Critical Reflection

Three learning theories that will be addressed in this discussion are as follows, self-directed and optimized, transformative, and critical reflection. Chen (2014) investigates “adult learners are self-directed and their learning is optimized when their experience is recognized and utilized in the learning process” (p. 407). Adult students are not 'clear slates' and their background turns into the medium through which substance is found out and in which to rethink new objectives to achieve (Chen, 2014). Self-directed is appropriate for an adult due to the connection that is made with their life experiences, the adult is able to plan and implement learning based upon their desire and initiation to learn. Self-directed is inappropriate for children because children rely upon the teacher as the caretaker to their education and implementation of it. I know as a …show more content…
The next adult learning theory is transformative. Learning is transformative and prompts self-improvement (Chen, 2014). Chen (2014) explores “academics often serve as a trigger for prior pain, and will invariably include times of confusion, conflict, and discomfort, which can lead to transformative growth opportunities” (p.408). Transformative is appropriate for an adult in how problematic frames are transformed of reference to make them more comprehensive, separating, intelligent, open, and candidly ready to change (Chen, 2014). For a child, their perspective of the world is not as broad as an adult. They cannot fully grasp the idea of