Adult Learning Theory & Andragogy Flashcards

Who is credited with popularizing the term 'andragogy' and developing its foundational model for adult learning?

Answer: Malcolm Knowles

Malcolm Knowles popularized andragogy in North America and developed its six core assumptions distinguishing adult learning from pedagogy.

According to Knowles' andragogical model, which assumption addresses the shift from a dependent learner to a self-directing one?

Answer: Learner self-concept

Knowles identified learner self-concept—the move toward self-directedness—as a defining characteristic of adult learners in his andragogical model.

In andragogy, why must adult learners understand the reason for learning something before they commit to it?

Answer: Because adults invest time and energy based on perceived personal value

Adults allocate effort based on whether they see clear value and relevance to their lives, making the 'need to know' a critical prerequisite for engagement.

Which statement best describes 'experience as a resource' in adult learning theory?

Answer: Adults bring life and work experience that enriches and contextualizes new learning

Adult learners accumulate experience that acts as a rich resource for new knowledge, making experience-based instructional techniques highly effective.

In Knowles' model, adults are most ready to learn when:

Answer: Training addresses real tasks or problems they currently face in their roles

Readiness to learn in adults is triggered by real life or role tasks, making training most effective when directly tied to immediate responsibilities.

What distinguishes adult learners' orientation to learning from that of children, according to andragogy?

Answer: Adults are problem-centered and seek immediate application of learning

Adult learners are problem-centered, preferring learning they can apply immediately to current challenges, in contrast to children who tend to be subject-centered.

According to andragogy, internal motivation in adult learners is primarily driven by:

Answer: Desire for job satisfaction, self-esteem, and improved quality of life

Knowles emphasized that adult learners are primarily motivated by internal factors such as job satisfaction and self-esteem rather than external rewards or threats.