The science of learning

It can be daunting if you’re a busy professional tasked with learning new skills or knowledge, especially if it’s been years since you were a student. But if you understand the science of learning, you can boost your study sessions for maximum impact. When you use behavioural science to drive your professional development, you can use techniques to improve your comprehension, making learning more effective and less time-consuming. So, what are the principles of behavioural science that enhance adult learning? Let’s find out!

Behavioural Science in Adult Learning

Adults learn differently from children and young people, and a few critical principles are referred to as andragogy, which contrasts with pedagogy. Andragogy is the process and practice of teaching adult learners that focuses on the need for practical, relevant learning experiences in professional development. A few of the key differences include:

Self-Directed Learning — Adults tend to be more self-directed in their learning, preferring to control the process, set goals, and choose learning strategies that suit their personal needs and circumstances.

Experience as a Resource — Adult learners bring a wealth of experience to the learning process, a resource that connects new knowledge with what they already know. This makes learning more relevant but can also hinder learning as they may resist ideas that conflict with their prior experience.  

Motivation — Intrinsic motivation, such as the desire for personal and professional growth, is much stronger in adult learners. They tend to value learning directly relevant to their professional life and personal goals.

Practical Application — Adults favour practical and problem-centred learning, such as solving real-world problems and fulfilling their work goals. They seek answers that relate to real-world situations, particularly their careers.

Readiness to Learn — Adults are ready to learn when they identify a necessity for gaining new skills and knowledge. As such, they tend to engage in learning that has a clear benefit or necessity in their personal and professional lives.

 

The behavioural science principles that enhance adult learning include self-determination and social learning theory, goal-directed motivation, reinforcement and feedback, chunking, spaced repetition, active learning engagement, habit formation, contextual learning, emotion regulation and stress management.

9 Behavioural Science Principles that Enhance Adult Learning

The science of learning can significantly enhance the adult learning experience by making the process more effective, engaging and in line with the unique needs of adult learners.

 

1. Self-Determination Theory (SDT)

Self-determination theory (SDT) is a theory of human behaviour in which individuals are considered proactive. In adult learning, SDT highlights the importance of autonomy, competence, and relatedness in motivating learners. Adults benefit when they feel in control of their learning and can master new skills. If you’re engaged in learning, ensure it’s on your terms. Do you have choices regarding learning pathways and learning styles? Make sure you are also provided opportunities to demonstrate your competence at work to reinforce your new skills and knowledge.

2. Motivation Through Goals

The science of learning suggests that clear, specific, and challenging goals motivate and enhance learning. When faced with learning tasks, it’s helpful to set personal learning goals relevant to your professional life and use goal-setting frameworks, such as the SMART goals concept, to help you create actionable learning plans.

3. Reinforcement and Feedback

Positive reinforcement and timely feedback are essential for sustaining motivation and reinforcing learning as an adult learner. If you’re studying, seek constructive feedback to track your progress and highlight areas for improvement. Treating yourself as a reward for achieving study milestones and celebrating any accomplishments along the study journey can be beneficial to your success.

4. Chunking and Cognitive Load Management

The human brain has a limited capacity for processing information. So, it pays to be mindful of managing your cognitive load while undertaking an adult learning course. Chunking, first popularised by psychologist George A Miller in 1956, involves breaking information down into management chunks to enhance recall. The theory demonstrates that our brains can work optimally when handling seven chunks of information simultaneously. So, how can you apply chunking in adult learning?

• Group similar information — Group information related to topics if you’re studying for an exam.
• Create acronyms or mnemonic phrases — Transform your study notes by creating acronyms or phrases that are easy to remember. A common mnemonic example is EGBDF, which stands for Every Good Boy Deserves Fruit. It is used to remember the notes on the lines of the treble clef in music theory.
• Visualisation—This learning technique involves creating a mental image of the items you want to recall and grouping them in visual groups. Mind maps, infographics, and flashcards are good examples of visualisation.

5. Spaced Repetition

The science of learning demonstrates spaced repetition, which involves reviewing information at increasing intervals over time and helps move knowledge from short-term to long-term memory. You can also schedule periodic reviews of key concepts during learning programs by including tools like flashcards and quizzes, which prompt you to revisit important information.

6. Active Learning and Engagement

Adult learners do best when actively engaged in the learning process rather than passively receiving the information. Even if your learning is online, you can still apply the concepts you learn to real-world scenarios to deepen and enhance your understanding.

7. Habit Formation and Behavioural Cues

Habits are powerful drivers of behaviour. Creating positive study habits can make your ongoing education more sustainable and automatic. Try to establish routines early on in your learning journey to support learning goals. It’s helpful to incorporate cues – like reminders or environmental triggers – to prompt learning activities and reinforce study habits until they become ingrained.

8. Contextual Learning

You will naturally learn more effectively when information is delivered in a context relevant to your professional life and work. Connect to your professional or personal challenges when working through your study materials. In this way, you naturally contextualise the knowledge gained to enhance your ability to consolidate and memorise new concepts.

9. Emotional Regulation and Stress Management

Your emotions can powerfully impact your learning. If you experience high levels of stress or anxiety, it will hinder your learning. Conversely, a positive, relaxed mood enhances it. As such, incorporate emotional regulation techniques, such as mindfulness, rest, exercise, and meditation, into your learning journey.

 

We hope you can apply these insights to your own learning and professional growth strategies when undertaking professional development courses. You can achieve your career goals successfully when you understand the science of learning and apply behavioural science techniques to your study practices.

 

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