Topic > Research on adult learning theory

Particularly examining Malcolm Knowles and his five assumptions about adult learners (1967). Knowles defined andragogy as the science of helping adults learn. Andragogy was first coined by Alexander Kapp in 1833 and later developed by Eugen Rosenstock-Huessy. Say no to plagiarism. Get a tailor-made essay on "Why Violent Video Games Shouldn't Be Banned"? Get an original essay Andragogy emphasizes understanding the support of the learning process in adult education. Adult learning requires students to create their own systems of meaningful understanding of knowledge rather than relying on rote memory. Knowles' approach is humanistic and is based on the notion of self-directed and autonomous learning. This has close links to constructivism as adult learners will have pre-existing knowledge and experiences to bring to the classroom. I think it is possible to combine methods to engage adult learners. As listed below, Knowles outlines the move from content to problem-based content, this links to constructivism as a theory which is also a problem-based one that emphasizes problem solving and understanding. Since both constructivism and andragogy have similar holistic links, valuing the students' point of view, but if the point of view is in any way misleading, the use of coaching and suggestions can redirect and enable the student to reevaluate your current perspective. Both theories rely on students creating their own systems of meaningful understanding; integrating the use of group work into a social context can aid in student understanding. Both ultimately aim to promote students to take responsibility for setting their own goals and learning. Self-concept: The first assumption refers to adults who are internally motivated and self-directed. Adults need to know why they learn something. Adults must be responsible for their own decisions about educational involvement in planning activities and evaluating education. Adult Learner Experience: This assumption takes into account the life experiences and knowledge of an adult. They are described as a growing reservoir of experience and become a growing resource for learning. Experience provides the basis for learning activities. Willingness to learn: Adults are goal-oriented because adults have a willingness to learn that suits the development of tasks for roles in society. Adults are more interested in learning subjects that have immediate relevance to their work/personal lives. Learning Orientation: As a person matures, his or her perspective of time changes from a postponed application of knowledge to the immediacy of application. Learning shifts from the more immediate the task. Adult learning is problem-focused rather than content-focused. Please note: this is just an example. Get a custom paper from our expert writers now. Get a Custom Essay Motivation: Adults respond better to internal rather than external motivators. Knowles emphasizes that adults are motivated to learn due to internal factors such as self-esteem, recognition, a better quality of life or the opportunity to fulfill themselves..