3 semester credits

The early childhood field offers a variety of opportunities for early childhood professionals to teach and work with adults. These professionals must understand the principles of adult learning. Education professionals in this course explore the major theories of adult learning and motivation to prepare to work in such roles as higher education faculty, community trainers, technical assistance providers, parent educators, coaches, mentors, professional developers, and Child Development Associate (CDA) trainers. They share ideas and perspectives with peers through discussions on a variety of topics, including traditional learning theories and andragogy, theories of cognitive development, and adult learning models, among others. Additionally, education professionals synthesize and apply various theories to real-world situations, including their own development; summarize how the idea of wisdom impacts their experiences as adult learners; interview an adult learner; and assess various perspectives in regard to educating diverse learners.