A Qualitative Research on Motivational Orientations of Adult Learners

The purpose of this study is to determine the typical characteristics of adult learners, were attended courses organized by Muğla People’s Education Center in accordance with their motivational orientations and participation reasons based on the Houle’s classification. Research data were collected by interviews. The target population of the study is consist of 58 highest rated adult learners who responded “Determination of Adult Learners’ Motivational Orientations Survey”. Related to the reasons for participating the courses, each motivational orientation reflects typical characteristics. In the light of results, it is proposed that adult learning activities should be organized according to their motivational orientations to create more effective learning environments