What is Andragogy?
I have recently learnt about the theory of Andragogy.
In simple, it is a theory about adult learning that was made popular by Malcolm Knowles.
The following are some considerations for your further research and reference if you do conduct courses regularly for adult learners.
Practical
Adult learners need to know how useful the learning can be for them before they would embark in new learning.
Most of them may have their personal commitment so to take out their time to learn, it must be of certain value to them.
Life experiences
Most adult learners may already have life experiences unlike our pupils may be just passive learners.
They may also come with their misconception of learning that it may be hard to convince them.
As facilitators, you may need to be tactful in how you address issues to make it acceptable and reasonable.
Goal orientation
Adult learners may have their own personal goal for learning that may be related to their own life-centered issues.
It can also be related to their career goal or personal goal. They may have their own plans on achieving them as well.
Choice (Autonomy)
As adults, we like to be given choice since we are not like children. We have our own opinion and agenda.
Most of them like to have preference in crafting their own learning content and objectives.
Readiness
Most adults definitely have greater concentration unlike the kids.
They definitely show greater eagerness for subjects that have immediate relevance to their professional or personal life.
Motivated extrinsically
Adults can be greatly motivated by external factors like career advancement, higher pay, self-esteem, companionship etc.
Learning can be a form of social needs as well as financial needs depending on age group of the adult.
In conclusion
The fact is adults are the ones who make the decision for their own learning and they are unlike kids. They have their own desire or purpose in these extra learning.
To get them to pay for their own learning, the learning must have been more valuable to make them part with their money.
Most adults would definitely appreciate facilitators that give them the due respect especially for their age.
The theory of Andragogy definitely provides facilitators of adult learners with some considerations and things to take note of.
Disclaimer: This is my personal reflection and I am not in any position to instruct anyone what they should do. I am not responsible for any action taken as a result of this post. My post can only be a reference for your further research and growth. By reading this post, you acknowledge and accept that. All images and pictures were taken from google images that are free from copyright under labelled for reuse.
Posted from my blog with SteemPress : http://fun2learn.vornix.blog/2018/07/05/what-is-andragogy/
Very good points, have to agree on these. Many times I think: "Oh, if only I would have such a desire to learn new stuff when I was still in school." Definitely a subject to explore more, thanks!
Thanks for reading my short article. Adult learning has many possible reasons. My short article has only introduced the theory behind briefly. Those trainers and teachers who read them can do further research for their own development for sure!
I agree with you completely. I wish I had appetite to learn new stuffs when I was still in school. Well School never ends. Life itself is a school. Learn on!
@stevenmosoes