EDST 518: Theories and Research on Adult Learning

Introduction to the course

Goals of the course

To immerse you in some of the learning theories and research;

For you to develop a critical appreciation of different theories

For you to explore how these theories could inform your teaching, learning and other educational or work practices.

Learning objectives

By the end of the course, students will be able to: Identify, describe and critically appreciate various

theoretical perspectives on adult learning;

Apply some of the perspectives to their personal and professional practices;

Develop your own understanding of learning in relation to your research and educational practices.

Learning theories covered in this course

Some neurological perspectives of learning, self-directed learning, transformative learning, and some attempts at holistic understanding of adult learning;

The embodied, emotional and spiritual dimensions of learning;

Learning theories covered in this course

some sociocultural and sociomaterial learning perspectives including communities of practice, cultural historical activity theories, and practice-based learning theories

the connections between critical theory, postmodernism and feminism and learning,

some non-Western perspectives of learning.

The format of the course

This course comprises Learning modules that will open by 9:00 am on Monday PST time

– you are expected to review the module in relation to the readings.

Group blogging where you contribute one post and respond to two other posts each week based on the course readings;

Facilitated class discussion in discussion forum – you are expected to contribute a minimum of three posts each week.

A Question-and-Answer section where you can post your questions;

A coffee shop where you can chat with your friends re things that are not related to the course;

In session 13 – a group blogging where you post your final learning project (usually based on your final paper).