Adult Learning Theory

The term andragogy is from the Greek ἀνδρ- (andr-), meaning "man", and ἀγωγός (agogos), meaning "leader of". Andragogy literally means "leading man", whereas "pedagogy" means "leading children". The term was originally coined by Alexander Kapp in 1833 and then later became popularized by Malcom Knowles in 1967.

Here is a run-down of Knowles' assumptions of adult learners and related principles of andragogy:

1. Self-concept: Adult learners have a well-established sense of self. As a person matures their self-concept moves from one being a dependent to an independent. Adult learners require a sense of autonomy in their learning.

2. Foundation (Experience affects adult learning): As a learner matures they are accumulating a wealth of experience from all aspects of their lives outside of school. This experience should propel growth since it becomes an increasing source for learning. Mistakes are made in life, then corrected through education for better performance in the workplace.

3. Readiness (Adults learn by doing): Adult learners are most interested in real-world subjects that have immediate relevance to their work and/or personal lives. Adult learning is a choice, so it needs to be goal-oriented with clear, measurable learning objectives so that they can apply the knowledge and skills immediately.

4. Motivation (Adults must want to learn): Adults respond better to internal motivators versus external. Adults do not fear disapproval or bad grades. What keeps them on track and coming back to class is their own personal motivation.

5. Orientation (Adult learning focuses on problem-solving): Andragogy is problem-centered rather than context-oriented. The perspective shift comes from immediacy of application instead of postponed application.

6. Need to Know (Adults will learn only what they feel they need to learn): Adults need to know the reason behind learning something, and stay actively involved with their learning process. Adults want guidance and consideration as equal partners in the process of learning.

7. Format (Adults learn best in an informal format): Being in an inviting, collaborative and networking environment as an active participant in the learning process makes it efficient.