Malcolm Knowles- Characteristics of Adult Learners

Autonomous & Self-directed

• Adult learners prefer to be free to direct themselves. Actively involve them in the learning process and serve as a facilitator for them.
• Get learner's perspectives about what topics to cover and let them work on projects that reflect their interests. 
• Allow learners to assume responsibility for presentations and group leadership.
• Act as a facilitator and guide learners to their own knowledge rather than supply them with facts.
• Show learners how the class will help them reach their goals. 

 A foundation of life experiences & knowledge

• Learners need to connect learning to their knowledge and experience base (family relationships, professional life, and previous academic experience).
• Draw out participants' experience and knowledge relevant to the topic.
• Relate theories and concepts to the learners' live; recognize and acknowledge the value of experience in learning. 

Goal-oriented

• When enrolling in a course, learners usually know what goal they want to attain. Good organization and clearly defined elements are much appreciated.
• Show learners ow your class will help them attain their goals.
• Clear goals and course objectives should be presented early in the course. (Course syllabus).

Relevancy-oriented

• Learners must see a reason for leaning something new. It has to be applicable to their work or other responsibilities to be of value. 
• Try to related theories and concepts to a setting that is familiar to learners. 
• Allow learners to choose projects that reflect their own interests.

Practical

• Learners may not be interested in knowledge for its own sake. Let them know explicitly how the lesson will be useful to them on the job.

Respect

• Acknowledge the wealth of experiences that learners bring to the classroom. Learners should be treated as equals in experience and knowledge.