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Essay / Adult Learning Through Online Education - 1225
Adult learners are different from young learners because they understand why it is important for them to learn and they can integrate new information with past experiences, improving the process and overcoming obstacles such as fears or behaviors. In this century, higher education is also done via the Internet, thanks to online courses that lead the student to a diploma of the same value as the traditional diploma. The number of adult learners enrolling in online courses is increasing year over year, and more traditional institutions are beginning to use online education as a method to recruit new students. Although Internet education does not replace the traditional classroom, it is becoming an accessible avenue for adults to receive their education. There are different theories or approaches to how an adult learns that have been discussed by educators. One such theory is andragogy, introduced by Alexander Kapp and later developed by Malcolm Knowles. According to Knowles, andragogy is a learning theory developed around the specific needs of adults, as they are self-directed individuals who expect to take responsibility for decisions (Blondy, 2007, pp. 116-130). The adult learner needs to know why he or she needs to learn a specific subject and will learn it if the subject has immediate value. Andragogy differs from pedagogy because in pedagogy, learners do not bring any experience to school and, as Knowles stated, the motivation to learn is external, coming from parents and teachers (Blondy, 2007, pp. 116-130). Another approach to adult learning is that of multiple intelligences, a theory developed by Dr. Howard Gardner in 1983. This theory maintains that “reason, intelligence and logic are not synonymous…” (Gardner, 1983) and affirms that each person h..... . middle of paper......the student does research but some researched elements require explanation and the student must wait for the next class. These are some of the differences between them, although some students feel comfortable with online learning, others need the setup of a traditional course. In conclusion, most students who enroll in online courses are working adults and prefer this setup as an alternative because they can share their family and work schedule with their studies. They have the commitment and determination to succeed in the online environment and bring experience that can be helpful in learning and understanding new theories and concepts. Adults appreciate the flexibility and ability to choose their schedule. Online education gives adults an equal opportunity to complete their education or achieve that goal that will put them on the path to success..