Understanding adult learning styles and patterns is essential in offering assistance to both beginning and veteran teachers. Professional development and adult learning literature has identified common characteristics for the adult learner (Padgett-Thompson, 1993; Piazza Templeman & Peters, 1998). The following will summarize seven of these characteristics.

Meaningful and relevant information.
Professional development activities should be planned in response to the assessed needs of the participants and be relevant to these needs. Adults are motivated to learn by changes or needs in their personal or work situations. Learning occurs best when the training simulates real world situations and applies in practical ways to the needs they face.

Experiences respected
The adult learner brings previous life experiences, both professional and personal, to the training. These experiences affect what the adult learns and are the foundation of future learning. Learning takes place best when new ideas are tied to or built upon past experiences. Participants need to be accepted and respected as adults whose opinions are listened to, honored and respected.

Immediate application
Learning is heightened when adults use the information and skills soon after they learn them. Immediate use allows the participant to transfer the knowledge or skills to new situations and reinforces the new information.

Diverse teaching styles
There is no one right method for teaching all adults. Adults learn in different ways. Learning is enhanced when it appeals to multiple senses and includes sight, hearing and kinesthetic approaches. Adults learn more effectively when they are actively involved and allowed ample opportunity to learn by doing.

Self direction
Learning is enhanced when adults have some control or influence over the direction and focus of learning. This self-guided learning captures interest and encourages participant responsibility in the process.

Freedom from anxiety
Adults learn best when they are psychologically and physically relaxed. Feeling defensive or anxious can block learning. Humor, games and role play in a comfortable physical environment enhance adults' ability to relax and learn.

Feedback
Adults need assistance in the form of immediate feedback to assess their learning. Adults need reassurance to understand that they are on the right track. Feedback reinforces new learning and redirects participants when they stray off course.