Pedagogy versus andragogy

This June, 2014 blog post discusses pedagogy (the methods and practice of teaching children) in contrast with andragogy (the methods and practice of teaching adults). The author lists the key elements of adult learning theory, noting that adults

• Are more independent than children when it comes to learning;
• Are capable of critical thinking (unlike some children) but are still interested in knowing the “correct" answer;
• Learn just as effectively, but more slowly because they have deeply ingrained stereotypes and ideas based on life experiences;
• Must be given respect as adults and for their life experience (or lack thereof);
• Need classrooms that embrace active learning, including hands-on activities;
• Learn material that is relevant for their needs; and
• Are less performance driven and more mastery driven than children.

Pegoda, A. J. (2014, June 17). It's andragogy, not pedagogy. [Web log post]. Inside Higher Ed. Retrieved from http://www.insidehighered.com