Overview

Andragogy is the study of how adults acquire new information, skills, and abilities. Unlike pedagogy that centers student learning, this theory focuses on the unique traits adults acquired through formal and informal experiences that impact their learning. The standard role of the teacher is replaced by mentors, coaches, facilitators, or subject matter experts who lead students through collaborative and hands-on learning. 

Strengths of Andragogy in Professional Development for Teachers

• intrinsic motivation

• readiness to learn

• prior experience

• focus on practical application

Weaknesses (or rather Difficulties) of Andragogy in Professional Development for Teachers

•  what's in it for me-this is not necesarily a weakness but rather a difficult task because adults are driven by learning they deem beneficial. Although trainings may be offered, if there aren't any benefits, adults will not participate unless it is mandatory. 

• not seeing the big picture- Workers may see training as pointless if they don’t know how it helps the business achieve its objectives and what the meaning of this training is in the overall context (Coleman, 2023).

Prior Learning Experience

Formal Training- TESOL Project Seminar course with UMBC provided activities such as lesson planning, designing a teaching portfolio and submitting recordings of teaching. It was helpful with the practical application of theories and applying prior experience to further my understanding of teaching English language learners. The relevance of content also provided motivation to apply for the Fulbright program to Romania  

Informal Training- How to become an remote online notary with national notary.org was something that peaked my interest after watching Destinee | Online Notary on TikTok. The course is self-paced which can be difficult at times with holding yourself accountable. It not only requires motivation but discipline such as prioritizing it as part of your schedule until you complete the certificate. 

All in all I prefer formal training because of the legitimacy and familiarity of a formal training setting. Legitimacy to me looks like courses on Coursera provided by reputable universities and companies that have major stakes in the job market. They provide hands-on projects, assignments and quizzes taught by top companies and universities and that makes the motivation factor easier because you believe you are getting a return on your time consumed earning the certificate. 

References

Coleman, H. (2023, June 8). What is Adult Learning Theory and How to Use It In Employee Training. eLearning Industry. https://www.ispringsolutions.com/blog/adult-learning-theories 

Pappas, C. (2013, May 9). The Adult Learning Theory-Androgogy-of Malcolm Knowles. eLearning Industry. https://elearningindustry.com/the-adult-learning-theory-andragogy-of-malcolm-knowles 

Smith, M. K. (2002). Informal, non-formal and formal education: a brief overview of different approaches, The encyclopedia of pedagogy and informal education. https://infed.org/mobi/informal-non-formal-and-formal-education-a-brief-overview-of-some-different-approaches/