Learner Characteristics and Instructional Design
Two broad categories of human characteristics to consider when designing instruction are individual differences and similarities (Smith & Ragan, 2005). These individual differences result in adult learners having different learning styles, different attitudes and beliefs, and different educational backgrounds. Conversely, adult learners share similarities such as the capability to process information, sensory capabilities (hearing, seeing, touching, tasting, smelling), and the capability to cogitate.