Adult Learning Concepts

Andrew’s Eight

Adults learn concepts in blocks1:

Action:• Treat each concept as an individual block

Adults have a 5-7min attention span2:

Action:• Make each block less than 7mins• Grab attention at the start of each block

Adults learn by building on their previous knowledge

3:

Action:• Put each block in a logical order• Use analogies to help learners link to

previous experience

Adults process information they believe is important to them (“WIIFM”)

4:

Action:• Explain the benefits before the session• Explain the benefits before each block• Tie it to “on the job” at the end of each block

Adults forget quickly5:

Action:• “Have to know” in the classroom;

• “Nice to know” in supporting materials• Get their attention at the start of each block• Create opportunity to reflect after each block• Ensure they put it into practice ASAP

Adults have to process information to learn

6:

Action:• At the end of each block, make time for:

• Silence / contemplation• Discussion / clarification

• Create opportunity for purposeful practice

Adults process information best while asleep

7:

Action:• Recap the following morning• Layer complex concepts over multiple days• Conduct assessments between 24-72 hours

later

Adults like “completion”8:

Action:• Use stories, as adults will pay attention as

they need to know how it ends• Create a visual learning flow.