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The Identification of Truth in Adult Learning
Keywords
Truth Identification, Adult Learning
Session Abstract
Truth is explained differently based on perspective and is often based on the context of the truth proposition. This preliminary literature review identified processes adult learners use to accept propositions as truth. This presentation highlights initial findings and how those will be used for a more targeted, in-depth integrative review.
Session Description
Contemporary learners have many sources for receiving information, each with differing levels of trustworthiness and with competing motivations. How can adult educators provide learners with tools for discerning truth in a world awash with competing versions of “truth”? Discovering and accepting propositions as truth is an important part of adult learning practice and application. This presentation explores literature from the fields of philosophy and education with the intent to inform the practice of adult educators and researchers regarding the process and implications of an adult’s truth discovery processes.
We will lay out philosophical descriptions of truth and connect those descriptions to applications of truth in adult learning. The processes for accepting a proposition of truth will be reviewed. Once a learner has accepted a proposition as true, what are the implications for individual thinking and behavior? What is the learner’s obligation to continually test and to question accepted truth claims, and when can they feel confident that an accepted truth has enduring credibility? Gaps in the literature and future research areas will be examined..