What Does It Mean to be an Adult?

1153 Words3 Pages

There are many factors that constitute being an adult. An adult is much more than turning the age of 18. The definition in the dictionary states an adult means being completely grown: fully developed and mature. I think there is much more that defines an adult. In the United States an adult is considered to be someone who takes responsibility of themselves and their actions. An adult has stability in their life and is able to take care of themselves physically, mentally, financially and emotionally. In other countries and cultures there definition of an adult differs.
Adults are unique in many ways. Every person is an entity having their own identity, thought process, and way they see things. We all have different morals and values from our diverse up-bringing. We have different interests. Our lives have taken us on individualized paths offering different experiences. A person's uniqueness comes from the combination of characteristics that make up their personality.
Merriam, S. B. & Brockett, R. G. explains the difference between Adult Learning and Adult Education. Adult Learning is a cognitive process. (Merriam, S. B. & Brockett, R. 2007,G p.5) Learning is acquiring new information gained from life experiences, reading to inform yourself and personal relationships. It differs from Adult Education because it is informal. For example, if one would like to live a healthier life style and obtain information on good nutrition by reading a self-help book, this is adult learning. If one attends a nutritional class with a nutritionist as an instructor, this is a form of adult education. Adults are lifelong learners because learning is an on-going process. Learning is constant, incidental and is everywhere. Lindeman beli...

... middle of paper ...

...Liberal Philosophical Orientation does not fit with my view of Adult Education. The purpose is to “develop intellectual powers of the mind; to make a person literate in the broadest sense--intellectually, morally, and spiritually.” The methods used are lecture; study groups, critical reading and discussion. I do not think an adult learner, or any student benefits from this kind of teaching. There are various ways to deliver information that is more engaging and effective in education.
My own Philosophical Orientation is a mix of Progressive and Humanistic. I like both concepts which include, problem solving, experience based education, lifelong learning, experimental learning, feelings, interactive, and openness. I feel both concepts will help Adult Educators and Adults learners find success and become well-rounded individuals in our society.

More about What Does It Mean to be an Adult?

Open Document