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Andragogy

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Critics of andragogy state that “it lacks the fundamental characteristics of a science because it cannot be measured.” (Taylor & Kroth, 2009) It is not that they disagree with the foundations of andragogy, but that its variables are subject to interpretation and do not allow for a scientific validation.

Within the model of andragogy there are a series of checks and balances with allow the instructor to tailor the model to the needs of the learner. It is a broad model that does not specifically point to one type of learner at a time. However andragogy is a theory about the characteristics of adulthood and the process from which these characteristics come from. Knowles states that the key characteristics of adulthood are “a) self-directed, b) task or problem-centered orientation to learning, c) internally motivated, d) life experience is a rich resource for learning and e) readiness to learn develops from life tasks and problems.” (Knowles, 1980)

The best about the model is that it can be modified and adapted with the use of other theories in conjunction with Knowles idea. The worst is that it looks to the individual only and does not take into account the boundaries an instructor has within a classroom environments, were the are more than one individual that needs the program tailored to them. Sometimes it can work well if you have a classroom of like-minded individuals; but often you have to take into account other theories to adapt to the situation.

Bibliography

Knowles, M. (1980). The modern practice of adult education: from andragogy to pedogogy. Chicago: Associated.
Taylor, B., & Kroth, M. (2009). Andragogy's Transition into the Future: Meta-Analysis of Andragogy and Its Search for a Measurable Instrument. Retrieved Sep 12, 2014, from ERIC-Institute of Education Sciences: http://files.eric.ed.gov/fulltext/EJ891073.pdf

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