Which characteristic of andragogy assumes that adults have specific purposes for learning and want skills that can be applied to real-life situations?

The characteristic of andragogy that highlights adults having specific purposes for learning and a desire for skills applicable to real-life situations is learning orientation. This principle emphasizes that adults are typically goal-oriented and need to understand the relevance of what they are learning in order to engage fully in the process. Learning orientation reflects the notion that adults seek education that is practical, relevant, and immediately beneficial to their personal or professional lives.

In this context, learning orientation drives adults to pursue knowledge and competencies that can enhance their effectiveness or support their goals, making it essential for educators to align training with these real-world applications. This approach also signifies that adult learners prefer learning experiences that involve active participation and application rather than passive absorption of information.