Motivational Challenges of Adult Learners in an Online Learning Environment
Shawn Wilson
Unit 5a1 Topic Selection
PSY 8130/Adult Learner in the Classroom
Summer Quarter
September 9, 2009

Thesis Statement: Adult learners in an online environment continue to face motivational challenges during their learning process.
I. Introduction
A. Thesis statement: Adult learners in an online environment continue to face motivational challenges during their learning process.
The introduction will include brief background information on what will be included in the paper. The thesis statement will be included in the introduction. Andragogy will be introduced and defined.
II. Educational Environment
A. What is learning?
B. Different Types of Learners
1. Traditional Learners
2. Non-Traditional Learners
C. Past Educational Environment
1. Previous demographic characteristics
2. Formal Learning
A. Community Based Learning
B. Indigenous Learning
D. Educational Environment Today
1. Current demographic characteristics
2. Technology
3. Informal Learning
A. Self-directed learning
B. Incidental learning
C. Socialization
This portion of the paper will define what learning truly is. The types of adult learners present in a college environment. Both previous and past information of the educational environment will be provided. This will include a comparison of demographic characteristics, technology, formal learning, and informal learning.
III. Adult Learning Theories
A. Behaviorism
B. Humanism
C. Cognitivism
D. Social learning theory
E. Constructivism
The five traditional theories of learning will be introduced. Behaviorism, humanism, cognitivism, social learning theory, and constructivism will be thoroughly explained and differentiated. In addition, upon defining, explaining, and differentiating these theories of learning a greater understanding will be provided to how