Adult Learning & Development | Smith & Pourchot

Adult Learning and Development: Perspectives from Educational Psychology

Edited by M. Cecil Smith & Thomas Pourchot

This groundbreaking volume introduces the emerging subfield of adult educational psychology, bridging the gap between adult education, adult development, and educational psychology. While the field has traditionally focused on learning in childhood and adolescence, this book brings together the work of educational psychologists who have more recently turned their attention to the unique processes of adult learning and development.

A Comprehensive Look at Adult Learning

The book is organized into four key sections, providing a comprehensive overview of the topic:

• Section 1: Explores the interplay between learning and development in adulthood, the impact of various instructional methods, and the diverse social contexts where adults learn. It also discusses the development of metacognitive knowledge across the lifespan.
• Section 2: Details research and theory on adult intellectual functioning, thinking, and problem-solving skills in various real-world contexts.
• Section 3: Describes research in a variety of learning domains, from the cognitive dimensions of reading to interventions designed to promote forgiveness and assist parents with their children's math learning.
• Section 4: Summarizes the key themes and issues presented throughout the book, solidifying its place as a foundational text in this new subfield.

An essential resource for students, researchers, and professionals, Adult Learning and Development is a vital contribution to understanding how and why adults continue to learn and grow throughout their lives.