Andragogy Vs. Pedagogy

Approaching the Adult Learner

During my own inquiry, I found more than ever that things are changing in our classroom. Central to this change is the way learning takes place. Due to this, I am doing a great deal of reading about andragogy. Andragogy refers to the methods and approaches used in adult education and is directed towards self-actualisation, gaining experience, and problem solving. In contrast, pedagogy is an education method in which the learner is dependent on the teacher for guidance, evaluation, and acquisition of knowledge.

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We are at a crucial moment in education both nationally and globally. It is somewhat ironic because words like gaining experience and problem solving are what our students are encouraged to do our curriculum document. That is why we need to adopt an anthropological approach to our teaching. How often are we teaching in this way?

One of the most obvious differences between pedagogy and andragogy is the motivation of the learner. Our children previously required extrinsic motivation. They learn because an authority figure tells them to, or  because they will be penalised in the classroom otherwise. Adults, for the most part, come to the table self-motivated and interested in understanding new topics and ideas because they know that doing so can positively affect their earning potential, community standing, or personal
development. To motivate adult learners, you need to highlight how learning benefits them personally and directly, rather than a “because I said so” mentality.

There was a time when our students approached learning as blank slates. They did not have much experience with many topics, and even when they have had experience, it has been on a superficial level. Things have changed though. Our students now bring so much more to the table. We must acknowledge they have had the benefit of learning and experience.

Those who teach according to traditional theory might not realise the importance behind relevancy as part of the strategy. Our students want to understand why they are learning a new topic. It needs to be applicable to either their current environment but be something they would like to achieve.

I observe my students perceiving irrelevancy as a waste of their time, so whether they’re already familiar with a topic or they simply don’t see how it applies to them, you could lose learners if you don’t take the time to
highlight the “What’s in it for me right now?” behind any topic.

It is a common mistake and one that might seem like no big deal, but mixing up pedagogy and andragogy makes your teaching less effective. When teaching your adult learners, do not patronise them with childlike learning strategies. For if you do, it will be so at your peril.

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