The Common Standard for Assessing Adult Learning Theory Credits or Degrees (CS-ALT) is used to determine credits and degrees specific to adult learning as required by the OEC for the technical assistance provider application or administrative / leadership level credit.

The three-credit course will include the following content:

• adult learning theory and principles of adult learning. For example:
  • differences between andragogy and pedagogy
  • review of major theorists (may include but not limited to: Knowles, Dale, Maslow, Gardner, Bloom, etc.)
  • principles of adult learning (may include but not limited to: Senge, Vella, Knowles, etc.)
• instructional learning design for adults. For example:
  • planning strategies for designing learning with adults
  • assessing learning with adults
  • neurological design considerations (may include but not limited to: brain-based adult learning, cognitive load, the role of memory in learning)
• influences on adult learning. For example:
  • life transitions and effects on learning – developmental challenges of adulthood including career, family, and aging concerns
  • how culture, environment, race, class, gender and other psycho-social factors influence adult learning
  • perception of self (confidence) and effects on learning
  • experience and bias (mental models) and their effects on learning
• adult learner characteristics, motivation, and engagement in learning. For example:
  • understanding the diversity and characteristics of adult learners
  • understanding motivation to learn (re: work environment/personal motivations)
  • engagement in learning (based on real experience, reflection, action)