Pembelajaran orang dewasa sebagai upaya berkelanjutan pengembangan pengetahuan, keterampilan, dan kompetensi

Abstract

This article examines the importance of learning among adults as part of lifelong learning and personal, professional, social, and psychological development. Adult learning is often underestimated because learning is commonly associated with children and adolescents. The literature reviewed in this article indicates that adults continue to need opportunities to update knowledge, develop practical skills, improve professional competence, and adapt to social and technological change. The study uses a qualitative literature-study approach by reviewing literature relevant to adult education, adult learning, and lifelong learning. The analysis is organized thematically around the meaning of adulthood, the importance of adult learning, adult-learning characteristics, efforts to improve learning capacity, and factors that influence participation and effectiveness. The review shows that adult learning becomes more meaningful when it is connected with learners’ experience, self-concept, practical needs, and problem-solving orientation. Active learning, appropriate use of technology, supportive learning environments, and lifelong-learning orientation can strengthen adult participation and learning outcomes. Barriers such as limited time, cost, scheduling, transportation, family responsibilities, and psychological factors also need to be considered. The article concludes that adult learning should be viewed as a continuing need and an important investment in individual competence, independence, and quality of life.