Principles of Andragogy

Summary

This transcript discusses Malcolm Knowles' andragogy, focusing on principles of adult learning. Key points include adults' need to know why, how, and what they are learning, as well as the importance of shared control in the learning process. It highlights self-directed learning, where adults take ownership of their learning journey, and the impact of prior experiences on learning. The script also covers the readiness to learn, which is often triggered by life changes, and adults' preference for problem-solving over subject-oriented learning. Motivation is driven by real-world applications and intrinsic desires to succeed.

Takeaways

• 😀 Adults need to know why they are learning before engaging in the process, as understanding the purpose is crucial for effective learning.
• 😀 Adult learners benefit from having shared control over their learning process, including decisions about how, what, and why they learn.
• 😀 Self-directed learning is a key principle for adults, meaning they take ownership of their learning, though not all prefer to self-teach.
• 😀 Adults bring prior experiences to the learning environment, which can both enhance learning by building on past knowledge and introduce biases that may resist new information.
• 😀 Adults generally become ready to learn when life circumstances—such as a new job or career change—trigger the need for new skills or knowledge.
• 😀 Life factors, like family and career responsibilities, can impede an adult’s ability to engage in learning, affecting their readiness.
• 😀 Adults prefer a problem-solving approach to learning, which involves using knowledge in real-world contexts rather than focusing solely on theoretical subjects.
• 😀 Motivation for adults to learn is typically driven by practical, real-world applications, particularly those that can improve their lives or help them solve problems.
• 😀 Adults tend to be intrinsically motivated, seeking success and enjoyment in the learning process rather than relying on external rewards.
• 😀 Andragogical principles, while useful, are generalizations and do not apply to every adult learner; individual differences still play a significant role in learning preferences.

Q & A

What is the core principle of andragogy according to Malcolm Knowles?

The core principle of andragogy is that adults need to know why they are learning something before they engage in the learning process.

How does the concept of shared control impact adult learning?

Shared control in adult learning suggests that learners should have a role in determining how, what, and why learning takes place, which makes the learning process more effective.

What are the three dimensions of the 'need to know' principle?

The three dimensions of the 'need to know' principle are: how the learning will be conducted, what learning will occur, and why the learning is important.

What does self-directed learning mean for adults?

Self-directed learning means adults take ownership of their learning by choosing how they approach learning, whether through formal classes or independent study. It does not imply all adults prefer self-teaching.

How does prior experience influence adult learning?

Adults' prior experiences influence learning by providing a foundation upon which new knowledge is built. However, their past experiences can also cause biases, leading to resistance to new learning.

What does 'readiness to learn' mean in the context of adult education?

Readiness to learn refers to the point at which adults become ready to learn due to a specific need in their life, such as a career change or a new job.

What life impediments might affect an adult's readiness to learn?

Life impediments, such as family responsibilities or career demands, can negatively affect an adult's readiness and ability to learn.

What is the preferred orientation to learning for adults?

Adults generally prefer a problem-solving orientation to learning, where the focus is on practical, real-world issues rather than on abstract subjects.

How does real-world context influence adult learning?

Adults learn best when the knowledge or skills being taught are placed into a real-world context, as this makes the learning more relevant and practical.

What motivates adults to learn according to andragogy?

Adults are typically more motivated by learning that helps them solve real-world problems or improve their lives. They tend to be intrinsically motivated and focused on success and enjoyment in the learning process.