This article reports on the research findings from a qualitative study of adult learners in Scotland taking part in a u.lab MOOC. As a new phenomenon in adult learning, u.lab has been extremely popular yet, at present, there exists little empirical data about either the process or outcomes of the learning experience. This study aims to provide a…

The present study is aimed at creating a holistic fractal model (HFM) of autonomous learning for English acquisition in a blended environment of e-studies in adult non-formal education on the basis of the theories and paradigms of philosophy, psychology and education for sustainable development to promote the development of adult learners'…

Although Westerners have used over 200 terms to describe self-directed learning (SDL), it is educators in Confucius heritage cultures (CHC) that have successfully promoted and implemented SDL. This article argues that for learners in the Western cultures, especially in the United States to catch up with learners in other industrialized nations…

The discipline of education is a multi-faceted system that must constantly integrate new strategies and procedures to ensure successful learning experiences. Enhancements in education provide learners with greater opportunities for growth and advancement. "Open Learning and Formal Credentialing in Higher Education: Curriculum Models and…

The author shows how education and training in prison is essentially accommodative. The analysis, informed by critical theory perspectives and on-site investigations, yields insights on how the kind of power relationships and coercive structures that impinge on prison education also shape much of the modern practice of adult education, in…

This model of self-directed learning integrates three dimensions: self-management (contextual control), self-monitoring (cognitive responsibility), and motivation. (SK)

The objectives of the study were twofold: (1) to determine if correspondence study is a viable approach for offering vocational education to residents of Wisconsin who want and need a vocational education program, (2) to design a correspondence study model for vocational, technical, and adult education (VTAE). To carry out these broad objectives:…

The usual model of action learning includes within its framework the role and function of the set adviser. This article provides an account, by its members, of an action learning set operating with no set adviser. The development of procedures and processes within the group is reviewed, together with an assessment of outcomes. (Author)

A proposed model for adult art education focuses on helping adults learn and practice art throughout their lives. Emphasis is on enhancing self-direction or learner control of the learning process and continued learning. This new construct encourages art educators to recreate their classrooms based upon an appreciation of the varied and…

Personal responsibility has long been considered an important component in self-directed learning. And yet, a theoretical understanding of personal responsibility that could lead to meaningful instrumentation has eluded the field. The present study considers the merits of the Triangle Model of Responsibility (TMR) (Schlenker, Britt, Pennington,…

Research toward the development of a theory of independent study and telemathic, or distance, learning is discussed in this paper. The concepts of independent study, educational programs, learning programs, teaching programs, and telemathic teaching are defined, and telemathic teaching programs are classified according to distance between teacher…

Introducing exemplary theory and research findings bearing upon adult experiential learning, this article describes three emerging learning models that are "active" oriented. Implications for the future in terms of individual learning and postsecondary institutions are highlighted. (Author/DS)

A project management design for modularizing higher education at open universities was developed and tested. Literature in the fields of project management and development of modular curriculum materials was reviewed and used as a basis for developing a project-based approach to the process of developing modules for self-instruction. According to…

Five models of independent learning are suitable for use in adult education programs. The common factor is a facilitator who works in some way with the student in the learning process. They display different characteristics, including the extent of independence in relation to content and/or process. Nondirective tutorial instruction and learning…

The implications of the movement to individualize the curriculum in higher education are examined. The background and basic premises of the movement are explored and the realities and problems of the program at Empire State College are examined. The nature of contract education is discussed. (Author/MLW)