Andragogy Theory

INTRODUCTION

In adult learning there have been few styles of learning but Malcolm Knowles theory has been around for nearly forty years. (Merriam, 2007) Knowles came up with six assumptions for his theory. Maturity helps one become more independent and self-directing. As an adult experiences life this makes their experiences a good resource. The adult’s readiness to learn that is associated with their work and social role. (Merriam, 2007) “ There is a change in time perspective as people mature-from future application of knowledge to immediacy of application. Thus, an adult is more problem centered than subject centered in learning.” (Merriam, 2007, p. 84) Adults are motivated internally and they need to know why they are learning. (Merriam, 2007) Andragogy theory is a good way for instructors to encourage their students to learn and this will help them be successful.

ANDRAGOGY REFLECTION

SELF-DIRECTING

Self-directed learning does improve as a person matures. There is a lot of debate on how self-directed learning really affects adult learning. “Self-directed learning appears to be at a juncture in terms of which direction research and theory building should take in order to advance our understanding of this important dimension of adult learning.” (Merriam, 2001, p. 10) Adults going back to college might struggle at first to get back into the habits of studying, writing papers, and etc. At this point in their lives they want to be successful. These adults will be more independent, take control of their learning and be self-directed so they can succeed.

EXPERIENCE

Experience is a big component of andragogy. In the article participants kept talking about self-directed learning and learner-centeredness as part of their adult learning. (Ryan, Connolly, Grummell, & Finnegan, 2009) “They also mentioned the importance of experience (which they transformed through learning); the role of adult education in achieving greater social equality; recognizing the learning contexts and the need to belong; developing supportive learning (in which people learn from one another and co-construct knowledge) and creating equalitarian relationships between tutors and learners.” (Ryan et al., 2009, p. 131) Instructors are able to help their students by using their experience and being able to teach what they have learned.

SOCIAL ROLE

The social role has been controversial. Mezirow has focused too much on the individual then the social role. (Merriam, 2007) “For Mezirow, though, the role of adult education is to promote and facilitate individual critical reflection in which “the only anticipated learning outcome….