The adult development of cognition and learning

Cognition in adult development arises out of the dynamic interplay of (1) gains in knowledge-based systems, expertise, and skill and (2) losses in speed of processing, working memory capacity, and attentional control processes. These changes have important effects on the nature of learning and entail that strategies in instruction be developmentally sensitive throughout the life span. At the same time, formal education early in, and educational experiences throughout, the life span shapes these lifelong trajectories and, therefore, is an essential element to successful aging. This article examines this bidirectional relationship between education and cognitive vitality through adulthood.