Understanding Adult Learning Theory

Understanding Adult Learning Theory

Instructional Coaching

Andragogy vs pedagogy

MalcomKnowles

Teaching Strategies

ANDRAGOGICALSTRATEGIES

Pedagogy vs. Andragogy

"The American educator, Malcolm Knowles was best known for the use of the term andragogy. Knowles described andragogy as the art and science of adult learning. He went on to define the differences between adult (andragogy) and child learning (pedagogy). These differences are now referred to as the Six Principles of Andragogy." (Wil, 2020). In short, the difference between Pedagogy and Andragogy is the maturity and the learning of children and adults. In the research and theories of Malcom Knowles, there are large differences in how adults and children egage and retain information.

Andragogical Strategies:

"Malcolm Knowles six assumptions for designing adult learning are: (1) Adults need to know why they need to learn something (2) Adults need to build on their experience, (3) Adults have a need to feel responsible for their learning, (4) Adults are ready to learn if training solves an immediate problem (5) Adults want their training to be problem focused, (6) Adults learn best when motivation comes intrinsically." (WGU, 2022) Some effective strategies for adult learners include: -plenty of oppurtunities for collaboration -use a variety of learning strategies such as: visual, auditory, etc. Be mindful of different learning styles -make sure lessons are relevant and pertain to the adult audience of learners

Instructional Strategies:

There are plenty of effective instructional strategies educators can use to enhance and support adult learning: -make the content relatable and when approrpiate, humurous (depending on the group) -allow time for collaboration and exploration of the topic(s) being introduced. -make sure eveyone is involved and has equal oppurtunities -ensure that the material is relevant and engaging -be sure to cater to different learning styles and incorporate different instructional strategies

Instructional Coaching:

fThere are a variety of resources and strategies that can be used to enhance instructional coaching.Instructional Coaches are held to a high standard and need to be able to successfully educate adults. Below is a great resource for instructional coaches:

https://www.rethinked.com/resources/strategies-for-instructional-coaching/