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M.Ed. Self-Designed Programs
M.Ed. Self-Designed Programs

Adult Learning and Development Program

Program Coordinators:
Cheryl B. Baker, e-mail: medadultlrn@plymouth.edu
Blake Allen, e-mail: ballen@plymouth.edu

Courses in adult learning address competencies in understanding learning styles, program design and evaluation, gender perspective and teaching strategies for adult development. The focus of this program is to provide instructors of adults with a framework for understanding the characteristics and special needs of adult learners. The student will develop techniques to maximize learning for the adult learner and develop a better understanding of the unique qualities, motivations and capabilities of students or clients.

Objectives of the Program
  • Knowledge of the unique elements related to adult learning, such as the importance of experience in learning, the ongoing cognitive development process and the effects of aging on the learning process.
  • Ability to apply knowledge about adult learning to the design and teaching of learning activities and programs in a way that creates “adult friendly” and effective formats for learning.
  • Understanding of other important factors that are part of adult learning, such as diversity and learning, the role of learning in the workplace and learning as a collaborative process.

Required Courses

Master's Core Component
ED 5010 Philosophy, Ethics and Education - 3 credits
ED 5000 Social Behavior in a Diverse Society - 3 credits
- OR -
ED 5005 Social Psychology and Mythology across Cultures - 3 credits
ED 5030 Research Design - 3 credits

Adult Learning and Development Core Courses
AL 5060 Psychology of Adulthood - 3 credits
AL 5070 Learning in Adulthood - 3 credits
AL 5080 Teaching Adults - 3 credits
AL 5090 Program Design and Evaluation - 3 credits

Adult Learning and Development Elective Courses
AL 5130 Educating for Adult Literacy - 3 credits
AL 5140 The Learning Workplace - 3 credits
AL 5150 Learning and Teaching Styles - 3 credits

Capstone Experience
ED 5210 Graduate Practicum - 6 credits
– OR –
ED 5950 Graduate Thesis - 6 credits
– OR –
ED 6900 Graduate Capstone Project - 3 credits

Total for M.Ed. Self Designed, Adult Learning and Development - 33 credits

Plymouth State University, 17 High Street, Plymouth, NH 03264-1595. Main Switchboard: (603) 535-5000.
A member of the University System of New Hampshire. ©2005-2008. All rights reserved.
This page was last revised: 1/3/2008