From understanding how adults learn, to unlocking training techniques that capitalise on neuroscience, Sponge’s new handbook showcases the science of good learning to L&D leaders, managers, and design practitioners.
Discover how adult learning principles can help you create more engaging, effective and memorable workplace training experiences.
Understanding the science behind adult learning
Thanks to recent developments in neuroimaging, we now know more about the human brain than ever before. As well as bringing countless medical benefits, this also means we can further our understanding of how we learn.
Building on our Learning Science Unpacked podcast series with Professor Paul Howard-Jones, this handbook explores the theory and practice of leveraging neuroscience within an L&D context.
As well as gaining an understanding of the three brain processes that aid memory and recall, you will learn about evidence-based techniques for boosting learner engagement and creating memorable training experiences.
Download the Learning Science handbook
What’s in this handbook?
This handbook offers tools and tips for crafting the most effective learning in your workplace, exploring:
- How adults learn: engagement, building knowledge, and consolidation.
- Effective training techniques: The approaches that really work (and the ones we should leave behind).
- Common learning pitfalls: How to avoid common pitfalls that hamper learning and short-change organisations.
Frequently asked questions about adult learning principles
What are adult learning principles?
Adult learning principles describe how adults acquire, retain and apply new knowledge and skills. They highlight the importance of relevant, engaging learning experiences that build on existing knowledge and encourage practical application.
Why are adult learning principles important in workplace training?
Understanding adult learning principles helps L&D professionals design training that meets the needs of adult learners. By applying evidence-based techniques, organisations can improve learner engagement, knowledge retention and the effectiveness of workplace training.
How does neuroscience influence adult learning?
Neuroscience helps us understand how the brain processes, stores and recalls information. These insights can inform learning design, helping organisations create training experiences that support attention, memory and long-term knowledge retention.
What are the three key brain processes involved in learning?
Three important processes involved in learning are engagement, building knowledge and consolidation. Engagement helps learners focus on information, building knowledge supports understanding, and consolidation strengthens memories over time.
Understanding these processes can help L&D teams design more effective training experiences.
How can Sponge help organisations apply adult learning principles?
Sponge combines learning science with creative digital learning design to help organisations develop engaging and effective training experiences.
Through its Learning Science handbook and wider learning solutions, Sponge helps L&D professionals explore evidence-based approaches to improving engagement, retention and workplace performance.