Andragogy

Andragogy in its present form is an adult learning theory based on the research Malcolm Knowles conducted in the 1970s and 1980s. Though the term itself dates back to the 1800s, Knowles is considered the father of modern-day andragogy. He defined andragogy as a learning theory based on the psychological concept of adulthood, which states that “people become adults psychologically when they arrive at a self-concept of being responsible for their own lives, of being self-directed” (Caruso, 2010). Originally, Knowles outlined four assumptions that differentiated adult learners from children; he added a fifth in 1984, and a sixth was later added. These six assumptions form the basis of how we perceive adult learning today. Knowles’s focus on the adult mind and how it processes information and learns differently than the mind of a child is firmly rooted in the world of cognitive learning theory. However, in practice, the activities best suited for andragogy are often constructivist in nature.

The six assumptions are characteristics that differentiate adult learners from children and thus andragogy from pedagogy.

In practice, andragogy is a process model of learning that focuses on the actual activities and steps designed to help adult learners acquire knowledge and skills rather than a content model that focuses on what will be taught and how it will be presented (Finlay, 2010).

Applying the Principles of Adult Learning to Law Enforcement Training from Jonathan Parham

PowerPoint Presentation Exploring the Six Assumptions of Andragogy

Malcolm Knowles and the Six Assumptions

Andragogy: What is it and does it help thinking about adult learning?

Southeastern Louisiana University Andragogy Resource

Caruso, S (2010, August 31) Malcolm Knowles and the six assumptions underlying andragogy. Retrieved from: http://www.eadulteducation.org/adult-learning/malcolm-knowles-and-the-six-assumptions-underlying-andragogy/

Finlay, J. (2010, May 17). Andragogy (adult learning) [Video file]. Retrieved from: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=vLoPiHUZbEw

Knowles, M. S. (1968). Androgogy, not pedagogy! Adult Leadership, 16, 350-352, 386.

Knowles, M. S. (1975). Self-directed learning. New York: Association Press.

Knowles, M. S. (1980). The modern practice of adult education. Chicago: Association Press.

Knowles, M. (1984). The adult learner: A neglected species. Houston: Gulf Publishing.

Knowles, M. S. (1986). Using learning contracts. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.

Knowles, M., & Associates. (1984). Andragogy in Action: Applying modern principles of adult education. San Francisco: Jossey-Bass.