How Do You Design Online Courses Based On Adult Development Theories?
As instructional technology becomes increasingly user-friendly, students are being offered online courses as a more interactive system of learning. Several adult development theories can be used for successful online course design that targets adult learners. The principles of andragogy and the four main adult development theories: action learning, experiential learning, project-based learning and self-directed learning are all applicable. Using insights from these adult development theories can help educators and curriculum directors to engage in informed online course design and capitalizes on adult learners’ strengths and targets their specific needs. Incorporate principles of andragogy by involving adult learners in the online course design and evaluation, using adult learners’ experiences as the basis for instruction. Focus on problem-solving rather than content introduction. Apply andragogy to online course design by clearly stating the course objectives and the reasons why adult
