Transformative Learning in Adult Education

Abstract

The particular features that adult learners have impart an orientation to the design, implementation and evaluation of the educational process and so adult education theory is supported by the learning theories. The various theories that have been developed have a common denominator which is the opinion that learning is active. According to Rogers (1999) adult training comprises their active participation and the encouraging of their self-determination, which increases their tendency towards adulthood. ackson and Caffarella (1994) in their book "Experiential Learning: A New Approach" referring to the characteristics of effective adult education, emphasize that in order for the trainer to successfully live up to his role, he must make use of a large tank filled with methods and techniques that give him the ability to produce the appropriate learning experiences for the learners and to promote interaction, always combined with the use of appropriate teaching aids and strategies and of the class structure.