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Instrumental and expressive learning: some comparisons
International Journal of Aging & Human Development
|January 1, 1977
Summary
Older adults show a stronger preference for instrumental learning (skill mastery) over expressive learning (enjoyment). This trend has increased since 1972, with some demographic variations observed.
Area of Science:
- Gerontology
- Adult Education
- Lifelong Learning
Background:
- Understanding learning preferences in older adults is crucial for developing effective educational programs.
- Distinguishing between instrumental (skill-based) and expressive (enjoyment-based) learning provides insight into motivations.
Purpose of the Study:
- To examine learning preferences and activity in instrumental versus expressive education among adults aged 55 and older.
- To test hypotheses regarding demographic influences on these learning preferences.
Main Methods:
- Qualitative interviews were conducted with 256 Nebraskans aged 55 and older.
- Data were analyzed to compare preferences across various demographic groups and with historical data.
Main Results:
- A greater preference for instrumental learning was supported.
- No significant preference differences were found based on age, sex, or location.
- Hypotheses regarding white-collar workers and college graduates preferring expressive learning were not supported.
- No significant preference differences were found based on race, marital status, or social class.
Conclusions:
- Older adults demonstrate a clear preference for instrumental learning, emphasizing skill acquisition.
- An increasing trend towards instrumental learning preferences was observed compared to 1972 data.
- Demographic factors showed limited influence on learning preference differences within this cohort.