Self-directed Learning and Culture: a study on Malay adult learners

Introduction Experience is considered as an essential element in adult education and many researchers have considered it as an important element (Boud and Miller (1996b), Brookfield (1995) and Usher, Bryant and Johnston (1997) cited in Merriam, 2001) as it carries with it a rich resource for adult learners. Experience appeared to be highly influenced by historical as well as sociocultural factors, however, not all experience may translate into meaningful learning (Merriam and Caffarella 2001). Other factors also contributed to the successful learning process of adult learners such as self-directed learning, critical reflection and learning how to learn (Brookfield, 1995).