Which of the following statements about adult learners compared to their younger counterparts is true?

• A. Younger learners typically have more life experience to draw upon than adult learners.
• B. Adult learners are generally more self-directed in their learning than younger learners.
• C. Younger learners usually prefer learning that is problem-centered rather than subject-centered.
• D. Adult learners are less motivated by practical application than younger learners.

Answer: (B)

Verified step by step guidance

1. Step 1: Understand the characteristics of adult learners versus younger learners. Adult learners often bring more life experience and tend to be more self-directed in their learning process.
2. Step 2: Analyze each statement by comparing it to established principles of adult learning theory, such as Knowles' Andragogy, which emphasizes self-direction and practical application in adult learning.
3. Step 3: Evaluate the first statement: 'Younger learners typically have more life experience to draw upon than adult learners.' Consider that adults usually have more life experience, so this statement is likely false.
4. Step 4: Evaluate the second statement: 'Adult learners are generally more self-directed in their learning than younger learners.' This aligns with adult learning theory, which suggests adults take more responsibility for their learning.
5. Step 5: Review the remaining statements about motivation and learning preferences, noting that adults are often motivated by practical application and prefer problem-centered learning, making those statements less accurate.