Understanding Adult Learning Theories

Understanding Adult Learning Theories

By Arica Cook

Malcolm Knowles' Principles of Andragogy

How the Principles Apply to Instructional Coaching

Teaching Strategies for The Adult Learner

Differences between Andragogy and Pedagogy

Strategies to Engage Adult Learners

Malcolm Knowles' Principles of Andragogy

1. Self- Concept Adults identify as being responsible for their own decisions, including the need to learn. Adults engage in self-directed learning (Drew, 2023). 2. The Role of Experience Adults have a range of life experiences that bring experiences and perspective into the classroom and how they apply information (Drew, 2023). 3. Readiness to Learn Adults are goal oriented and will learn when the need is relevant to their own lives (Drew, 2023). 4. Orientation to Learning Adults learn better when things are structured around problem solving versus subject to subject. Also need to be provided with real-world context (Drew, 2023). 5. Motivation to Learn Adults are motivated to learn by internal factors such as self-esteem, curiosity, and satisfaction (Drew, 2023). 6. The Need to Know Adults need to understand the importance of what they are being asked to do and learn (Drew, 2023).

How Principles apply to Instructional Coaching.

Orientation to Learning Instructional coaching, providing real-world context is essential for making connections (Drew, 2023).

Self- Concept Instructional coaching, we need to provide teachers with clear instructions and support with resources, while allowing them autonomy in their classrooms (Drew, 2023).

The Role of ExperienceInstructional coaching, showing teachers how to encourage student experiences in the classroom and to integrate diversity into classroom discussions (Drew, 2023).

Motivation to LearnInstructional coaching, maintaining the learning environment to keep the learners interest and attention. Also need to provide praise for accomplishments (Drew, 2023).

Readiness to LearnIn instructional coaching, we need to explain to teachers the reasoning behind the expectations (Drew, 2023).

The Need to KnowInstructional coaching, providing clear expectations of what needs to be taught (Drew, 2023).

Keep lessons relevant

Get everyone involved

Have discussions

Teaching Strategies for the Adult Learner

Be mindful of different learning styles.

Let them explore on their own.

Use the learners life experiences.

Ask questions

Provide valuable feedback

University of San Diego-Professional & Continuing Education, 2022.

Difference between Andragogy and Pedagogy

Pedagogy

• Methods for teaching children.
• Develop habits of thinking and acting.
• The teacher's role is to provide opportunities for students to learn through experiences.
• Children depend on teachers to facilitate and structure learning (Western Governors University, 2022).
• Strategies learned as a child impact how they learn as adults.

Andragogy

• Method of teaching adult learners
• 6 principles of Malcolm Knowles'.
• Adults are independent and want to be self-directed and empowered in their learning (Western Governors University, 2022).
• The significance of adult learning is to meet the needs of the adult learners and their needs are different than child learners.

Andragogical Strategies for Adult Learners

Collaborative Learning

• Provide time in class to share and discuss (Riadnenko, 2023).
• Debate and share experiences (Riadnenko, 2023).
• Stress active participation (Riadnenko, 2023).

Problem-Centered Learning

• Learning should center around problem-centered activities (Riadnenko, 2023).
• Relate to real-world examples (Riadnenko, 2023).
• Provide time for self-directed learning (Riadnenko, 2023).

References

References

• Drew, C. (2023). The Six Principles of Andragogy (Malcolm Knowles). Helpfulprofessor. https://helpfulprofessor.com/principles-of-andragogy/

• Riadnenko, D. (2023). Exploring Andragogy and Pedagogy: A Comprehensive Guide to Adult Learning and Education Strategies. Raccoon Gang. https://raccoongang.com/blog/exploring-andragogy-and-pedagogy-a-comprehensive-guide-to-adult-learning-and-education-strategies/

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• University of San Diego-Professional & Continuing Education. (2022, March 21). 15 Top Strategies for Teaching Adult Learners [+ FAQs]. University of San Diego - Professional & Continuing Education. https://pce.sandiego.edu/15-top-strategies-for-teaching-adult-learners-faqs/

• Western Governors University. (2022, May 24). Andragogy vs. pedagogy: key differences in learning. WGU. https://www.wgu.edu/blog/andragogy-pedagogy-key-differences-learning2205.html#:~:text=Andragogy%3A%20Adults%20are%20independent%20and,facilitate%20and%20structure%20their%20learning.