Four issue areas for research and practice based on the process model of experiential learning are understanding and honoring the diversity of individual learners; importance of social affiliation patterns; transfer of learning; and authentic assessment. (SK)

Defines learning environment as the physical surroundings, psychological or emotional conditions, and sociocultural influences affecting the growth and development of an adult engaged in learning. Suggests that ingrained views of learning environments can be changed by perspective transformation, paradigm shift, and personal philosophy. (SK)

The SPATIAL model (satisfaction, perception, achievement, transcendent/immanent attributes, authority, layout) posits that (1) individual perception of space affects satisfaction, participation, and achievement; (2) certain aspects of a space are subjective or beyond physical attributes; and (3) authority and layout are external and can be…

Notes environmental factors affecting adult learning situations: territoriality, seating arrangements, sightlines, and equipment. A checklist for conducting a space audit includes features inside and outside the classroom. (SK)

The learning climate set by adult educators reflects assumptions about adults as learners and the teaching-learning transaction. Creating positive environments requires attending to initial contact with learners; answering the questions Who are we? Who am I the instructor? and Why are we here?; and using icebreakers. (SK)

Perceptual deprivation--the inability to observe without biased or racist interpretation--can be countered by acknowledgement that racism exists; commitment to address racism in the learning environment; cultural exchange; use of the affective domain; and assessment of affective learning experiences. (SK)

Defines "gender" and considers the social context of women and educational institutions. Explores politics, work, violence, and the ways in which gender relationships are experienced in the institutional environment, curricula, classroom conduct, and teacher-learner relationships. (SK)

The learning environment includes physical space, psychological and emotional climate, and sociocultural context. Steps for improving learning environments include helping learners feel at ease and gain control, controlling physical space, using microcomputers, taking proactive steps against racism and sexism, and making a personal commitment to…

Successful professional development is more than acquiring new techniques for practice. It involves an awareness of the "big picture" of the field of adult education and an understanding of how individuals can make a unique contribution to this picture. (Author/JOW)

Describes the types and sources of information resources in adult education, outlines strategies for identifying resources, and suggests the following guidelines for selection: authority, timeliness, relevance, depth, accuracy, and replicability. (JOW)

Once information resources have been identified and located, it is important to understand how to get more out of professional literature. Techniques include identifying the domains of adult education knowledge, studying the classics of adult education, and having a disposition, a discipline, and a plan for reading for professional development.…

As the knowledge base of adult and continuing education continues to grow, research holds increasing potential for informing practice. Being an effective consumer of research involves developing a working understanding of basic methods and procedures. (Author)

An important part of professional development is writing for publication. A successful writer needs to engage in three simultaneous activities: focusing, understanding, and networking. (JOW)

Effective professionals need to be able to communicate their ideas through speaking as well as writing. Successful presentations involve using strategies to overcome anxiety, organizing the presentation, analyzing the audience, and managing nonverbal elements of the presentation. (JOW)

Professional associations play an important leadership role in the growth of the adult and continuing education field. Involvement in these associations can contribute to personal professional development. (Author)