Development Theories

There are many reasons that the stages of Adult Development are important.  Initially, I would say that we need to keep in mind the various stages of development of the “learners” in training programs or classes.  But, before I get to that, I think that one very important reason that teachers or trainers need to understand Adult Development is that we need to honestly reflect at what stage we are at, and continue to strive for further personal development.  If we still perceive many things as right v. wrong, then we cannot really expect much more from others.  Even at Perry’s second level of Cognitive Development Theory, multiplicity, we may accept diversity and uncertainty but we wouldn’t necessarily celebrate it.  I would of course love to think that I have reached “LEVEL FOUR” – but I can’t guarantee that is always the case.  It is much easier to think there is a right way to do something, while simply accepting that others may disagree.  But if we really want to help others think through problems and further their development, we need to make sure that we consistently respect the experiences that we have had and those of others.  Then we can draw on those experiences to create meaning and understanding, based on what we read, discuss and continue to experience.  Continuing to question and listen, I think (hope) helps me to continually learn. 

I believe that in the training context, it is also very important to understand the developmental stages of the various participants in a program.  Whether looking through an Age Theory, Stage Theory or Cognitive Development lenses, there is a likelihood that a training program could include participants that are at a range of stages.  It is not always immediately obvious what stage each person is at.  If some participants seeing everything as right v. wrong, however, they could hamper discussion and sharing of experiences.  In cases like those, we would need to develop strategies to help control the session so that everyone’s experiences are valued and discussed. 

Adult Development also helps us think about our learning strategies, to try and continue enhancing development for ourselves and others.  Often when thinking about ways to share information, a more lecture style program is easier  Unfortunately, that may not cater to the higher levels of development in the most productive way.  Drawing on others’ experiences, and helping to put ideas into context, can help increase everyone’s learning.

Even after thinking about why it is important, however, I am still honestly stuck a bit on the practical side of implementation.  I think it will be a challenge for me to try and strive for more programs and discussions that best help further personal development.  I hope, at least initially, by simply being cognizant of the stages I can recognize when there is a need and/or an opportunity to encourage discussion in a beneficial way.