L. Head

Andragogical Strategies for Engaging Adult Learners

Andragogy vs. Pedagogy

Applying Andragogy in Instructional Coaching

Understanding Adult Learning Theories

Appropriate Teaching Strategies

L. Head

References

Bouchrika, I. (2024, June 10). The Andragogy Approach: Knowles’ Adult Learning Theory Principles. Research.com. https://research.com/education/the-andragogy-approach Dwivedi, S. (2018). Andragogy - The Teaching Strategies Developed For Adult Learners. JETIR1811C34 Journal of Emerging Technologies and Innovative Research, 5(4). https://www.jetir.org/papers/JETIR1811C34.pdf University of San Diego-Professional & Continuing Education. (2022). 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/ ‌

References

Applying Andragogy in Instructional Coaching

• Involve adults in planning and evaluation - Instructional coaches should involve teachers in the planning and evaluation of their instruction. This fosters a sense of ownership and increases engagement (Bouchrika, 2024).
• Base learning on experience - Coaches should leverage teachers' experiences, including their mistakes, as a basis for learning activities. Encourage teachers to share their insights and learn from one another.
• Ensure relevance - Connect learning to teachers' immediate needs and interests, ensuring that the content is relevant to their jobs and personal lives. Frame learning experiences around real-world problems and challenges that teachers face in their classrooms.
• Focus on problem-solving - Structure learning experiences to be problem-centered rather than content-oriented. Help teachers develop practical solutions to the challenges they encounter in their practice (Bouchrika, 2024).
• Recognize the need to know - Emphasize the importance of understanding why specific things are being taught, including commands, functions, and operations.
• Promote self-directed learning - Encourage teachers to discover knowledge for themselves, offering guidance and support when needed

Appropriate Teaching Strategies

• Encourage collaborative and reflective teaching practices. Help teachers reflect on their strengths and areas for improvement (University of San Diego-Professional & Continuing Education, 2022).

• Support teachers in using data to inform their practice, identify areas of focus, and monitor progress.

• Share current research and model research-validated instructional strategies for teachers (University of San Diego-Professional & Continuing Education, 2022).

• Use case studies, simulations, and role-playing to help teachers connect theory to practice.

• Make sure that tasks should be problem-based, task-based, and solution-oriented

Andragogy vs. Pedagogy

Andragogy focuses on self-directed, experienced, and problem-solving adult learners. Teachers act as facilitators (Dwivedi, 2018). Pedagogy is teacher-led instruction for children, providing structure and guidance (Dwivedi, 2018). Significance on adult education: Andragogy recognizes adults' autonomy, prior knowledge, and need for relevant, practical learning. Pedagogy is appropriate for children who rely on teachers for direction. The use of both ensures that education is tailored to meet the unique needs of learners at all stages.

Andragogical Strategies for Engaging Adult Learners

• Survey the audience to assess skills and identify gaps. This ensures that learning experiences are tailored to meet their specific needs.

• Facilitate peer learning opportunities such as group discussions and online collaboration tools. By leveraging the collective experience and knowledge of the group, teachers can learn from one another and build a supportive learning community