Adult Education Glossary

Instruction in fundamental skills such as reading, writing, and mathematics for adults who have not completed high school or lack basic literacy.

The method and practice of teaching adult learners, emphasizing self-direction, experience, and problem-centered approaches to learning.

An instructional approach combining online digital media with traditional face-to-face classroom methods, offering flexibility valued by adult learners.

An educational approach focused on demonstrating mastery of specific skills or knowledge rather than accumulating credit hours.

Post-secondary learning activities and programs designed for adults who wish to update skills, earn credentials, or pursue personal interests.

An educational philosophy that encourages learners to question and challenge social inequalities and power structures through education.

The process of examining the assumptions underlying one's beliefs, values, and actions, central to Mezirow's transformative learning theory.

A mode of delivering education to students who are not physically present in a traditional classroom setting, using mail, television, or internet technologies.

Programs designed to teach English language skills to non-native speakers, a major component of adult education in many countries.

Learning through direct experience and reflection, as theorized by David Kolb's four-stage cycle of learning.

A learner-centered instructional approach where the educator guides rather than directs, creating conditions for adults to construct their own knowledge.

A set of standardized tests that certify high school-level academic skills, providing an alternative credential for adults who did not graduate from high school.

An economic theory holding that education and training increase workers' productivity and earning potential, providing rationale for investment in adult education.

Learning that occurs naturally through daily activities, work, family life, or leisure, without structured curriculum or formal instruction.

The theory that individuals have preferred modes of learning (visual, auditory, kinesthetic, etc.), though the empirical support for matching instruction to styles is debated.

The continuous, voluntary, and self-motivated pursuit of knowledge for personal or professional development throughout one's life.

The ability to read, write, speak, and compute at levels necessary to function in society, obtain employment, and achieve personal goals.

A free or low-cost online course available to unlimited participants via the internet, providing accessible adult learning opportunities at scale.

A short, focused certification that verifies an individual's competency in a specific skill area, often stackable toward larger qualifications.

Organized educational activity outside the formal education system, such as workshops, seminars, and community programs.

A process that evaluates and grants academic credit for knowledge and skills acquired through non-academic experiences.

Ongoing education and training that helps professionals maintain competence, learn new skills, and advance in their careers.

A learning process in which individuals take primary responsibility for planning, implementing, and evaluating their own learning experiences.

Mezirow's theory that adults undergo deep learning when they critically reflect on and revise their fundamental assumptions and frames of reference.

Programs and strategies designed to prepare individuals for employment and help existing workers advance their skills to meet labor market demands.