Page 25 - The Creative Training Idea Book Inspired Tips and Techniques for Engaging and Effective Learning

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Table 1-4. Youth Learning vs. Adult Learning
Pedagogy (Child) Andragogy (Adult)
Label of “students” is common. Label of “participants” is standard.
Participants are directed to attend. Participants attend voluntarily.
Based on grade achievement. “Competency or mastery-based.”
Dependent style of learning. Independent (self-directed) learning style.
Learning skills often low. Learning ability relatively high but may decline
with age.
Motivation to learn is often low. Various motivations exist (e.g., knowledge,
money, job enhancement, self-development).

Expect to be told what to do. Expect a voice in the learning process.
Participants expect all answers to be given. Expect to answer questions partially from
experience.
Participants provide little feedback. Participant feedback is vital to the success of
training.
Displays of immaturity are common Maturity level is normally high.
(e.g., shooting rubber bands).

Accept delayed application (someday they will Want to see immediate benefit of learning
use the information presented). (e.g. understand the big picture).
Past experiences are limited. Past experiences are common, varied, and
impact learning.
Long-term student goals usually lacking. Specific long-term participant goals set.
Learning is authority based (teacher to student Interactive-based (exchange between facilitator
format). and learner).
Learning is content-centered. Learning is problem-centered.
Activities are in “I talk/you listen.” Activities are of experiential format.

Senses of sight and hearing are primary target Multiple senses are often targeted.
to channel learning.
Correlation or application of theory usually not Applications of theory are discussed with
discussed with students. participants and action plans used.
Traditional classroom of rows of desks are used. Various configurations are used based on
scheduled activities.

Objectives or goals usually are not outlined to Objectives or goals are given to participants at
students. the beginning of a program.
Evaluation is done by the instructor. Evaluation is shared by facilitator and
participants.

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