TS Adult Learning Principles & Theory 3

Question 1

Which learning theory holds that learners actively construct new knowledge by building on their prior knowledge and experience?

Accepted Answer

Constructivism

Answer

Constructivism posits that learners build new understanding on top of existing knowledge structures, making prior experience a critical scaffold for new learning.

Question 2

In training contexts, 'positive transfer of learning' occurs when:

Accepted Answer

Skills learned in training improve performance of a related task on the job

Answer

Positive transfer of learning occurs when knowledge or skills acquired in one context (training) improve performance in another context (the job).

Question 3

In adult learning, 'metacognition' is best defined as:

Accepted Answer

Awareness and self-regulation of one's own thinking and learning processes

Answer

Metacognition is the ability to monitor, evaluate, and regulate one's own cognitive processes — a key capability that supports self-directed adult learning.

Question 4

According to Maslow's Hierarchy of Needs, trainers must recognize that which level of need is foundational and must be met before learners can focus on higher-order learning?

Accepted Answer

Physiological needs

Answer

Physiological needs (food, water, shelter, rest) form the base of Maslow's hierarchy and must be satisfied before learners can address higher-level needs like safety, belonging, or self-actualization through learning.

Question 5

A trainer observes that participants can perform a skill when coached step-by-step but struggle when working alone. This gap is best described by which concept?

Accepted Answer

Vygotsky's Zone of Proximal Development

Answer

Vygotsky's ZPD describes exactly this gap — the difference between what a learner can do independently and what they can accomplish with scaffolded support.

(TS) Trainer Specialist Certification Practice Test

(TS) Trainer Specialist Certification Practice Test

TS Adult Learning Principles & Theory 3