Andragogy

Andragogy is the theory and practice of education of adults. The word is a combination of andro, meaning "of men" and gogy, meaning "to lead", it arose from the practice of pedagogy to address the specific needs in the education of adults as opposed to the education of children.

Definitions

Two primary understandings of ‘andragogy’ currently exist:

1. The science of understanding (= theory) and supporting (= practice) lifelong and life-wide education of adults.

2. In the tradition of Malcolm Knowles, a specific theoretical and practical approach, based on a humanistic conception of self-directed and autonomous learners and teachers as facilitators of learning.

Interpreted broadly throughout the academic literature, the term also invites such definitions as ‘adult education practice,’ ‘desirable values,’ ‘specific teaching methods,’ ‘reflections,’ and ‘academic discipline,' with many authors claiming it to be better than traditional adult education.

The term has been used by some to allow discussion of contrast between self-directed and 'taught' education.

Andragogy Principles

Here are few guiding principles followed in andragogy for learning :

Learning is social: Learning is socially constructed and here it includes unlearning.

Learning includes participation: In learning there is connection made between persons which leads to participation in a community.

Problem centered: More emphasis given to solving of the problem.

Repetition: Repetition is followed as it increases the retention in older people.

Classroom engagement: Active participation of students in class will lead to classroom management and hence better learning.