Page 63 - OSEP Master Educator LG V1.0-2

What Learners Remember

5–10% of
what we read
20% of what we
hear

30% of what we see

50% of what we see and hear

70% of what we see, hear and do

90% of what we say as we see, hear and vocalise
(say aloud) while doing

Adults are goal oriented and need to know the outcome in advance
• Adults need to know what they are learning and why they are learning it

• Provide details of what the outcomes of this training will be so the
relevance is clear
• Maintain the focus and the outcome of the training

Adults have much life experience that should be acknowledged to make learning
meaningful
• Give adults the opportunity to bring life experiences or prior knowledge
into their learning (e.g. through discussions, role plays, case studies,
simulated activities etc.)
• Do not assume adult learners have no prior knowledge, they will have a
wealth of knowledge!

• Utilise questioning techniques to draw this information out
• Note that the experiences they have had in the past (which are not always
good ones) can impact on how they approach the learning

Adults have a need for self- directed learning and independence

• Adults resist learning when they feel they are having information imposed
upon them
• It is important to ensure they feel responsible for their learning. They
should be able to remain in control of their learning and decide how they
can best manage their own learning.

Page 60 OSEP Master Educator Learner’s Guide