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Course Description

This course is 12 learning hours including 4.5 hours of live sessions.  It is recommended that learners spend approximately 4 hours per week on this course, including the 1.5 hour live session. 


Theory can be a scary word for learners, but essentially, it is just a way to organize thoughts and ideas around a particular phenomenon. Is there a "right" theory of adult learning?  Or should we think of theory as a "toolbox", where you select the proper tool for the context.  Are  you bound by these formal theories, or as you gain experience as an adult educator, do you begin to form your own personal theory of adult learning?

This course is designed to introduce you to the foundational theories and principles of adult learning.  You will explore the ways in which theory connects to practice, how to utilize the principles of Universal Design for Learning, and how to foster engagement in adult learning experiences.  Learners will also explore their own theory of adult learning.

Course Outline

  • Module 1: Principles of Adult Learning
  • Module 2: Four Foundational Theories
  • Module 3: Universal Design for Learning and Engagement

What You Will Learn

Upon completion of this course, learners will be able to:

  • define "theory" and "practice"
  • recognize the principles of adult learning
  • describe the connection between theory and practice
  • identify the tenets of four key adult learning theories
  • discuss the principles of Universal Design for Learning as related to adult education
  • identify the learning theory most appropriate for your teaching context

Microcredential

Applied Learning Theory

This course provides learners with the opportunity to earn a microcredential. A microcredential is evidence of a skill or competency that is employment related. Dalhousie microcredentials are developed in collaboration with employers, industries, and/or organizations that relate to the content. A microcredential can be displayed on social media pages, digital resumes, personal webpages, and in email signatures. To earn the microcredential in this course, learners will need to successfully complete a competency-based assessment.

Learn more about this Adult Education microcredential on our website.

Notes

Please note:  These courses fill up quickly, and registration in one course does not guarantee your spot in another.  You must register for each course individually to reserve your spot.


For assistance or more information, please contact openlearning@dal.ca.

The Faculty of Open Learning and Career Development recommends an intermediate level of English language proficiency for the most effective learning and participation in our online and face-to-face courses. A list of minimum recommended scores on some common English tests can be found on our website. If you have questions about your English language proficiency and ability to succeed in this course, please contact openlearning@dal.ca.

Recommended For

  • Those interested in working in the field of adult education (training, facilitation, coaching, mentoring, etc.)
  • Those interested in design learning programs for adults.

Testimonials

"Theories of Adult Learning allows you to appreciate the variety of strengths and needs of the learner.  Studying universal design opens your eyes to the opportunities that exist to make learning more inclusive, enjoyable, and productive for all.  I highly recommend this course for any adult educator."

~ Melissa McKay, Maritime Business College


"Yes, I would recommend this course to others. It's a real eye-opener to not only the world of adult education but communication in general. Just studying how adults learn and the different theories behind it sparked my interest. The professor was easy to listen to and had great knowledge and experience on the subject."

~ Jody MacEachern 

To see how our Certificate in Adult Learning Fundamentals can benefit you, please read this article - Life-Changing Learning Experiences.

Applies Towards the Following Certificates

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Enrol Now - Select a section to enrol in
Section Title
Theories of Adult Learning
Type
Online - Self-Paced
Dates
Mar 07, 2025 to Mar 28, 2025
Type
Online - Scheduled
Days
Thursday
Time
7:00PM to 8:30PM
Dates
Mar 13, 2025 to Mar 27, 2025
Schedule and Location
Total Learning Hours
12.0
Location
  • Online Campus - Atlantic Time
Instruction Delivery Method(s)
Course Fee(s)
fee non-credit $675.00
Required Software
A webcam and microphone/headset will be required for the live sessions. This course requires a Dalhousie NetID. If you do not currently have a NetID, a NetID will be assigned to you, and—after registration—you will receive an email on how to claim your account. Once you have claimed your account, you will login to the Student Portal under the heading "I have a NetID Username and Password" on the far left of the login screen.
Section Notes
  • The course will officially open on Friday, February 7, 2025 at 4:00 pm
  • This course includes 3 synchronous facilitated sessions from 7-8:30 pm (1.5 hour sessions).  Click on View Details for exact dates. *Please note: Live session dates may be subject to change based on instructor schedule.*
  • Sessions will be recorded for those that have time constraints.
Section Title
Theories of Adult Learning
Type
Online - Self-Paced
Dates
Sep 05, 2025 to Sep 26, 2025
Type
Online - Scheduled
Days
Thursday
Time
7:00PM to 8:30PM
Dates
Sep 11, 2025 to Sep 25, 2025
Schedule and Location
Total Learning Hours
12.0
Location
  • Online Campus - Atlantic Time
Instruction Delivery Method(s)
Course Fee(s)
fee non-credit $725.00
Required Software
A webcam and microphone/headset will be required for the live sessions. This course requires a Dalhousie NetID. If you do not currently have a NetID, a NetID will be assigned to you, and—after registration—you will receive an email on how to claim your account. Once you have claimed your account, you will login to the Student Portal under the heading "I have a NetID Username and Password" on the far left of the login screen.
Section Notes
  • The course will officially open on Friday, September 5, 2025 at 4:00 pm
  • This course includes 3 synchronous facilitated sessions from 7-8:30 pm (1.5 hour sessions).  Click on View Details for exact dates. *Please note: Live session dates may be subject to change based on instructor schedule.*
  • Sessions will be recorded for those that have time constraints.
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