What is essential for adult learning according to the provided practices?

Structured feedback and reinforcement are essential for adult learning because they enhance the learning experience and support the retention of information. Adults often bring a wealth of prior knowledge and experiences to the learning environment, and feedback helps them to connect new information with what they already know. Reinforcement can serve to validate their understanding or correct any misconceptions, which is crucial for effective learning.

In adult education, feedback allows learners to assess their progress and understand areas that need improvement, promoting a more personalized learning journey. This active engagement facilitates deeper comprehension and application of the material learned.

The other options do not align as well with the principles of adult learning. Strict compliance with rules often stifles creativity and critical thinking, which are vital in adult learning. Individual competition among peers can lead to anxiety and a lack of collaboration, which is counterproductive since adult learning typically emphasizes sharing experiences and peer learning. Short and sporadic instructional periods may not offer enough time for adults to engage with the material meaningfully or to reflect and apply their learning effectively.