Informal Learning: Mid-Life Learners Forging a Learning Philosophy

Abstract

This case study research examines the learning attitudes and practices of adults who have earned less than a college degree. Their beliefs are probed in regards to their self-educative efforts in relation to their self-direction, motivation to learn, and self-efficacy. Data were collected primarily through interviewing four adult learners identified through purposive sampling. These learners reflected the vision and valuing of wanting to be educated persons. Through them, as they forge their learning philosophy, we are given a lens through which to view and appreciate all learners in our midst especially as it applies to the learning philosophy developed by mid-life learners beyond their formal education