2.1 Explain approaches to adult learning

This guide will help you answer 2.1 Explain approaches to adult learning.

Understanding how adults learn helps you make the most of your development opportunities. In health and social care, adult learning focuses on practical skills, experience, and applying knowledge to real-life situations. There is no single best way—different approaches suit different learners and circumstances.

What Is Adult Learning?

Adult learning refers to the methods and strategies used when teaching adults, rather than children or young people. Adults bring life experience, work skills, and personal motivation to the learning process. The focus is on practical application, problem-solving, and self-direction.

Characteristics of Adult Learners

Adults learn differently from children. Key features of adult learning include:

• Drawing on past experiences
• Wanting to see the immediate relevance and benefit
• Favouring practical, problem-based learning
• Preferring clear goals and self-direction
• Taking responsibility for their learning
• Balancing learning with work and family commitments

These features shape the approaches used in training and development for health and social care staff.

Experiential Learning

Experiential learning means learning through doing. Adults gain most from real tasks, simulations, or hands-on practice. This approach involves:

• Carrying out work tasks under supervision
• Participating in role-play scenarios
• Using simulation equipment
• Reflecting on what worked and what didn’t

Experiential learning fits well in health and social care settings, where practical tasks are key.

Reflective Practice

Reflection means thinking about what you have done, recognising what went well, and identifying what you could do differently next time. This is vital in health and social care.

Methods include:

• Keeping a reflective journal
• Discussing cases in supervision or team meetings
• Completing reflective accounts for qualifications

Reflection helps you link theory to practice, deepen your understanding, and improve your care.

Self-Directed Learning

Self-directed learning lets you take control. You identify what you want or need to learn, set your own goals, and choose your resources or methods.

Examples:

• Independent reading or research
• Signing up for online courses
• Setting learning targets as part of your PDP
• Requesting shadowing or observing a new procedure

This approach encourages independence and helps you spot gaps in your knowledge.

Problem-Based Learning

Problem-based learning presents real-life scenarios to solve or discuss. It is driven by curiosity and the need to find solutions.

In practice, problem-based learning might involve:

• Exploring case studies as a team
• Analysing incidents to identify lessons
• Completing practical assessments based on everyday challenges

This approach is very relevant to health and social care, where you often face complex situations that need creative solutions.

Collaborative and Peer Learning

Learning with others can be powerful. Adults benefit from sharing experiences and discussing problems.

Common forms of collaborative learning include:

• Group training sessions
• Peer mentoring or buddying
• Team-based learning projects
• Practice discussions in team meetings

These activities encourage you to learn from your colleagues and support each other’s growth.

Formal Learning

Formal learning is structured and planned. It includes:

• Accredited courses (Diplomas, Certificates)
• Workshops, seminars, and conferences
• E-learning with set objectives and assessment

Formal learning is often required for registration or progression and provides clear benchmarks for your skills and knowledge.

Informal Learning

Informal learning takes place during everyday work. It could be:

• Asking questions during your shift
• Observing how a colleague handles a certain situation
• Learning from feedback or day-to-day problem-solving

Much of your development happens in this way, often without you realising it.

Blended Learning

Blended learning mixes different methods—combining face-to-face, online, self-directed, and group learning. This approach can increase engagement by meeting the needs of different learning styles and offering flexibility.

For example:

• Completing an online module before a group training session
• Reflecting on practical work in supervision after classroom learning
• Using videos or online forums for discussion

This mixture offers a rich and varied learning experience.

Application of Theory

Adults want to see that what they learn is useful at work. Effective adult learning links theory to practice. Trainers should show how knowledge fits real cases, policies, or workplace challenges.

For example, in medication training, exploring why errors happen and how to prevent them connects the learning to everyday tasks.

Personalised Learning

Adults learn best when the approach fits their needs and interests. Personalised learning means:

• Recognising different learning styles—visual, auditory, practical
• Offering a choice in learning activities
• Adapting teaching methods to suit individuals

Some people may prefer written materials, others might benefit more from discussion or demonstration.

Barriers to Adult Learning and Solutions

Barriers include:

• Lack of time around work commitments
• Anxiety about returning to study
• Limited access to resources such as internet or books
• Learning preferences not being met

Solutions involve:

• Flexible and accessible resources (online, short sessions)
• Support from supervisors and colleagues
• Breaking learning into small, manageable tasks
• Encouragement and positive feedback

Identify barriers early and work with your manager to find solutions.

Final Thoughts

There are many approaches to adult learning. The most effective learning combines several methods and takes your experience, needs, and preferences into account. Health and social care benefit from practical, reflective and collaborative learning. Use a variety of approaches to get the most from your learning and continually improve your practice.