Foundations of Adult Learning

Course Description

Grounded in the principles of adult learning, this course emphasizes that meaningful professional development must be relevant, collaborative, and rooted in authentic practice. This self-paced, asynchronous course is designed for educators responsible for leading the professional growth of their colleagues. It provides a comprehensive introduction to adult learning theories, explores a range of professional learning designs, and equips participants with strategies to plan and facilitate impactful learning experiences.

Participants will examine how to apply habits of mind and key concepts from change theory to promote sustainable growth within their professional communities. Through reflection, analysis, and practical tools, the course empowers instructional leaders to design learning experiences that are engaging, purposeful, and aligned with the needs of adult learners.

Upon completion of the self-paced modules, participants will engage in three face-to-face sessions. These sessions offer opportunities to apply theory to practice, collaborate with peers, and refine facilitation skills through guided feedback and shared inquiry.

Learning Outcome

Identify key adult learning theories and their foundational principles.
Analyze how adult learning theories influence the ways in which adults gain knowledge and develop new skills.
Design impactful professional learning experiences by applying a range of adult learning design models and strategies.
Integrate habits of mind and key principles of change theory into the planning and facilitation of adult learning initiatives.

Target Audience

All instructional leaders, teacher leaders, coordinators, coaches, and educators responsible for planning, facilitating, or supporting the professional learning and development of their colleagues, particularly in K–12 school settings.