Learning in Adulthood - A Comprehensive Guide

The new edition of the authoritative book in the field of adult education - fully revised to reflect the latest research and practice implications.
For nearly three decades, Learning in Adulthood has been the definitive guide in the field of adult education. Now in its fourth edition, this comprehensive volume is fully revised to reflect the latest developments in theory, research, and practice. The authors integrate foundational research and current knowledge to present fresh, original perspectives on teaching and learning in adulthood. Written by internationally-recognized experts, this market-leading guide draws from work in sociology, philosophy, critical social theory, psychology, and education to provide an inclusive overview of adult learning.
Designed primarily for educators of adults, this book is accessible for readers new to adult education, yet suitably rigorous for those more familiar with the subject. Content is organized into four practical parts, covering topics such as the social context of adult learning, self-directed and transformational learning, postmodern and feminist perspectives, cognitive development in adulthood, and more. Offering the most comprehensive single-volume treatment of adult learning available, this landmark text:

• Offers a wide-ranging perspective on adult learning
• Synthesizes the latest thinking and work in the field
• Includes coverage of the sociocultural perspectives of adult learning
• Explores the broader social implications of adult education

Learning in Adulthood: A Comprehensive Guide, 4^th Edition is an indispensable resource for educators and administrators involved in teaching adults, as well as faculty and students in graduate programs in adult education.


SHARAN B. MERRIAM is Professor Emerita of Adult Education and Qualitative Research at The University of Georgia in Athens, GA. Merriam's research and writing activities have focused on adult and lifelong learning and qualitative research methods. She has published 33 books and over 100 journal articles and book chapters. She is a four-time winner of the prestigious Cyril O. Houle World Award for Literature in Adult Education. LISA M. BAUMGARTNER is an Associate Professor at Texas State University, San Marcos, TX. Her research and writing focus on adult learning and development in marginalized populations. She was co-editor of Adult Education Quarterly from 2011-2014. In 2019, she received a Circle of 50 Award from the Learning, Leadership, and Organizational Development Program at the University of Georgia. Awardees are seen as having made an impact on the research and practice of adult education, learning, leadership, and organizational development.