Andragogy is a learning theory developed by educator Malcolm Knowles in the 1960s. It is based on the notion that adults have unique characteristics and needs as learners, which should be taken into consideration when designing educational programs. Andragogy suggests that adult learners are self-directed, have accumulated life experiences, and seek to learn practical knowledge that can be applied to their daily lives.

One of the key principles of andragogy is the concept of self-directed learning. Unlike children, adults are internally motivated to learn and take responsibility for their own learning. As such, they prefer to have autonomy in their learning journey and are more likely to be engaged and motivated when they have a say in what and how they learn.

Another important aspect of andragogy is the emphasis on the learner’s past experiences. Adult learners have a rich and diverse set of experiences that they bring to the learning process. These experiences provide a foundation for new learning and must be acknowledged and integrated into the design of learning experiences.

Andragogy also recognizes that adults have a different orientation to learning compared to children. Adult learners are goal-oriented and want to see the immediate applicability of what they are learning. They prefer to learn practical skills that they can use in their personal or professional lives, rather than abstract theories.

In contrast to traditional pedagogy, which is teacher-centered, andragogy promotes a more learner-centered approach to education. This means that the focus is on the individual needs and interests of adult learners, and education is tailored to meet those specific needs.

Lastly, andragogy highlights the importance of collaboration and active participation in the learning process. Adult learners thrive in environments where they can engage in discussion and share their own insights and experiences with others. This social aspect of learning is seen as an essential component of andragogy, as adults learn from each other as well as from the facilitator.

Overall, andragogy suggests that adult learners have unique characteristics and needs that must be considered in education and training. By understanding these principles, educators can create more effective learning experiences that are engaging, relevant, and meaningful for adult learners.