Adult Learning Theory Andragogy Essay - 1408 Words

Adult Learning Theory: Andragogy The dispute of how adults learn is an ever developing subject matter since the 1920’s when adult learning became a professional field of practice (Merriam, S., 2001). Questions such as, do adults learn differently from children? Are adults able to learn quicker, independently, or in the same environment? These are just some examples of a multitude of questions that have been raised since scientists began investigating Adult Learning. I intend to clarify some of the misconceptions of adult learning through proven scientific research and writings of experts in the field. First, we will summarize the evolution of the concept of Adult Learning. Second, we will examine several recognized Adult Learning†¦show more content†¦Studies conducted indicated that adults up to their 70’s did just as good as young people when not placed on a time limit. Several more studies through the years contributed to the adult learning arena then in 1968, Dr. Malcolm Knowles coin ed the term Andragogy- adult learning theory. Dr. Knowles believed that adults were independent learners; had life experiences that enhance learning, had learning needs related to social needs, were interested in immediate application of knowledge, and is internally motivated (Merriam, S., 2001). There are several other theories on adult learning that are along the same lines as Dr. Knowles and others not parallel in thought. According to Conlan, J., Grabowski, S., Smith, K. (2003) there are many theories on adult learning but the following were the most prominent theories: action learning, experimental learning, project based learning, and self-directed learning. Action learning’s foundation is utilizing real world projects as a means of learning usually in a group setting. Experimental Learning operates on the premise that people learn better by doing the action and reflect on their experience. Project Based Learning focuses on the group dynamics and solving complex problems. The group learns through research, contemplation and reflection are the building blocks of this particular theory. Self-Directed Learning is probably the most publicized theory andShow MoreRelatedAndragogy: Adult Learning Theory1315 Words   |  6 PagesFirst Subtopic: The History and Conceptualization of Andragogy Edward Lindeman is thought by many to be the founder of contemporary adult education. His work in the area of adult education included the writing of articles, books, public presentations, assistance in the collegiate system as a lecturer of social work and as an associate pastor in the church (Brookfield 1986). Lindeman and Martha Anderson traveled to observe and analyze the German Folk High School system and the worker’s movement. ConsequentlyRead MoreAdult Learning Theory: Andragogy Essay934 Words   |  4 Pages When discussing the adult learning theory, andragogy is the best model for higher learning in adult education. Andragogy comes from the Greek word aner which means man and agogus which means leading (Knowles, 1980). The full translation means learning of adults. Andragogy was first used in the 1800s by a German teacher named Alex Kapp (Wang, 2011). It would not be until the late 1960s that a professor by the name of Malcolm S. Knowles would introduce andragogy to North America in a publishedRead MoreMalcolm Knowless Andragogy Theory1122 Words   |  5 Pages Introduction Adult learning is the complete range of formal, non-formal and informal learning activities majorly undertaken by adult learners. Mainly, the process is often done to adults who have taken a break for a while after initially completing early education and training. The end process is the acquisition of knowledge and skills. The method may take place even beyond schooling from the tertiary level. The process is often diverse, and it makes a lifelong learning process, and the wholeRead MoreAndragogy: The Cornerstone of Adult Education Essay743 Words   |  3 Pagesconcentrating on the subject of Andragogy and how it has always been a cornerstone of adult education. Andragogy in a sense leads you down the path promoting individualism in learning and in turn allows the availability for each adult to find their own specific learning style. As we all know, each individual will not learn the exact same as another. In the following essay we will explore all there is to know of Andragogy. The long standing debate of Andragogy is if adults and children learn differentlyRead MoreAdult Learning Theory - Essay1204 Words   |  5 PagesAdult Learning Theory Are people too stubborn and independent to learn once they become adults? The Adult Learning Theory focuses on the difference between how adults learn and how children learn. There are three main central ideas that support the Adult Learning Theory. These ideas or theories are known as andragogy, self-directed learning, and transformational learning. Andragogy is the teaching of adults, self-directed learning is the individual controlling their learning, and transformationalRead MoreLearning Theories : Knowles Versus Kolb Essay1077 Words   |  5 Pages Learning Theories: Knowles versus Kolb Sara L. Olson-Howard Ohio Christian University September 10, 2016 Abstract The purpose of this paper is to demonstrate that there are different theories based on how an individual learns. These theories are based on individuality rather than a group as a whole. I will compare and contrast the different learning theories as previously determined by educators Malcom S. Knowles which used Andragogy and Pedagogy compared to David Kolb whichRead MoreDifferent Models And Theories Associated With Adult Learning1241 Words   |  5 Pagesmodels and theories associated with adult learning. Through my research it seems that andragogy is the first thing educators think of when adult learning process is mentioned. Malcolm Knowles says, Andragogy is â€Å"the art and science of helping others learn (Merriam, Caffarella, Baumgartner, 2007).†Andragogy are learning strategies focused on adults. It is often interpreted as the process of engaging adult learners with the structure of the learning experience (Clardy, 2005). Andragogy is an assumptionRead MoreBriefing Report on Andragogy1284 Words   |  5 PagesBriefing Report on Andragogy What is meant by andragogy? The current business environment is continuously changing and it is vital that Google provides their workforce with effective training and development to ensure that the corporation retains the market position and stay ahead of competitors. However, to propose a suitable training method within an adult workplace, it is important to understand the variety of training models that can be applied, which sets of hypothesis and theories that form theRead MoreThe Theories And Principles Of Adult Learning978 Words   |  4 PagesAdult Learning Investigating and understanding the theories and principles underpinning adult learning has helped me to advance my thinking about this phenomena. For instance, Piaget’s work involving the â€Å"formal operational† stage, according to Bass (2012) has allowed for the assumption that adults learn in a fixed manner developed in their late teen years and that they remain unchanged from this stage (p. 387). It was assumed that adults, then spent the rest of their lives in that stage. HoweverRead MoreAndragogy Theory Essay815 Words   |  4 PagesIntroduction: Learning is a continuous process by self-assessment to evaluate own experiences and knowledge (Schon, 1983). Learning must include the three domains like cognitive, affective and psychomotor to involve a process of individual transformation. So, the learners can actively build their knowledge (Biggs and Moore, 1993). The adult learning theory is very important for adults as they learn by different teaching styles and learning methods. (Merriam, Caffarella, Baumgartner, 2007). The