Purpose
A primary purpose of the Center is to focus on the conditions, contexts, instructional methods and technologies that enhance learning in adulthood. Currently, there are two emphases:
1. Learning Across the Lifespan
One characteristic of being human is that we never stop learning. But, how does the process of learning evolve across the lifespan, how do learning and lifeworld interact, and what are the effects of aging on learning? Contemporary research theories, principles, and best practices have been pulled from several disciplines and organized into two courses available through the Department of Administration, Rehabilitation, and Postsecondary Education:
- ARP 730 – Adult Learning (3-unit Graduate Seminar)
- ARP 565 – Psychological Foundations of Adult and Vocational Education Students (3-unit Undergraduate Survey Course; can carry graduate credit)
2. Adult, Vocational, and Career-Technical Teacher Training
Adults are not simply tall children, but differ in terms of learning purposes, motivation, orientation, application, and cognitive processes. In view of this, a rigorous teacher training system has been developed for teachers of adult students. The system consists of mastering:
- Two Instructional Models (Direct Instruction and Student-Centered Instruction)
- Core Competencies (understanding adult development, applying learning theory to adult learning settings, knowing when and how to deploy best instructional practices, teaching students how to think and learn)
- Essential Skills (cultural diversity competence, commitment to multicultural education reform, disability awareness and an understanding of universal instructional design, technology literacy)
This teacher training system is available through two curricular options available through the Department of Administration, Rehabilitation, and Postsecondary Education:
Students enrolled in the SDSU BVE Degree only
ARP 382 – Direct Instruction (3-unit Undergraduate Course)
Professional development coursework – open to anyone
ARP X397 – Instructional Processes of Adult and Vocational Education (Level I –fulfills CCTC credential requirements)
ARP X397 – Principles and Practices of Adult and Vocational Education (Level II–fulfills CCTC credential requirements)
