If you’re creating courses for adult learners, it’s important to understand how they learn.

Adult learners usually have a wealth of life experiences, clearly-defined career goals, and an understanding of how to learn. They typically learn more effectively when they can relate new information to their past experiences and interests.

As a course creator, it’s essential to factor in their unique learning styles and preferences.

Here are some tips to consider when creating courses for adult learners:

Understand your learners’ motivations

Adult learners are motivated by personal and professional development. They want to apply what they learn immediately. Therefore, you should focus on creating courses that meet their needs and interests.

One way to do this is by conducting a survey or focus group to determine your ideal students’ interests, skills, and career goals.

Use real-world examples and experiences

Adult learners appreciate learning that relates to their work, personal experiences, or real-world situations. Using relevant examples and case studies can help learners understand how the course material applies to their lives.

This is exactly what a past client did in her Hope Heroes course. In addition to sharing her story about dealing with grief, she shared real-life examples of friends who supported her and became her hope heroes. Check out her course here.

Allow for flexibility

Adult learners are often balancing work, family, and other commitments. Therefore, they appreciate flexibility in their learning schedules.

Consider offering self-paced courses, recorded webinars, or online forums where learners can access information and ask questions when it is convenient for them.

Provide immediate feedback

Adult learners want to know if they are on the right track immediately. They appreciate feedback on their work, assignments, or assessments. Consider providing feedback in a timely manner to help learners adjust their understanding of the course material.

Encourage collaboration

Adult learners learn from each other, and they appreciate opportunities to collaborate with their peers. Consider creating group projects or discussion forums where learners can share their experiences, ideas, and perspectives.

Use multiple instructional strategies

Adult learners have different learning styles, preferences, and abilities. Consider using multiple instructional strategies, such as visual aids, interactive activities, discussions, or case studies, to help learners understand and retain the course material.

Final Thoughts

Creating a course for adult learners requires an understanding of their motivations, interests, learning styles, and preferences. Focus on creating relevant, flexible, and interactive courses that allow learners to apply what they learn immediately. By doing so, you can create engaging and effective course.s that meet the unique needs of adult learners