EPD - Teaching & Learning - Theories & Principles - Adult Learning Theory
Adult learning theory, or andragogy, encourages learning that is self-driven.
Adult Learning Theory
Summary
Adult learners are motivated by practical application, and need the following principles of andragogy (developed by Malcolm Knowles) to flourish in an educational environment (Toister, 2014):Principle | Explanation |
---|---|
Need to Know | Adults need to know why they are being asked to learn. |
Experience | Learning should be build upon existing knowledge. |
Self-Concept | Adults need to be held responsible for their own growth and learning. |
Readiness | Motivation increases when there's an immediate need to learn. |
Problem Orientation | Learning should be problem-oriented, not content-oriented. |
Intrinsic Motivation | Adults learn best when motivated from within, not from incentives or other external influences. |
Application
Courses must:- Explain the purpose of activities
- Know their audience
- Hold learners accountable
- Promote problem-solving and critical thinking
- Motivate learners to be engaged with the material
Resources:
- A Simple, Easy to Understand Guide to Andragogy (website, Cornerstone University)
- Instructional Design: Adult Learners (video course, LinkedIn Learning)