Andragogy. Not a term one hears on a daily basis, but it’s gaining traction in the world of education. Andragogy, introduced by Malcolm Knowles in the 1960s, can be defined as the method and practice of teaching adult learners, focusing on self-directed, experience-based, and problem-centered learning that is relevant to their personal and professional goals. This concept, centered around how adults learn, stands in contrast to teacher-driven pedagogy, which refers to the traditional methods used to teach children. While much change is occurring in the classroom in terms of how we approach instruction for adolescent learners, adult learning still often follows the same "sit and get" methods that have been around for years. 

The principles of andragogy are especially relevant in the context of professional development, as time-strapped educators seek access to on-demand learning experiences that are flexible, self-directed, and focused on practical application. Adults prefer learning that addresses real-life issues, which is why on-demand learning needs to provide interactive exercises, case studies, and challenges that allow learners to solve problems in real time. This type of learning, combined with the ability to choose topics aligned with intrinsic motivations like personal satisfaction and career development, makes the on-demand experience uniquely engaging. 

While district-provided professional development often has its place in school or district-wide initiatives, individual teachers may be left to find learning resources that align with their personal growth goals—or worse, be unsure of what goals they should focus on. Print materials can be highly effective for providing research and clarity on best practices, but they may leave teachers wondering how to apply theory within their own classrooms. With ongoing demands placed on teachers growing and time allocated in the school day primarily for planning and grading, it is becoming more apparent that teachers need what Knowles emphasized: self-directed, relevant learning experiences.

Adults bring a wealth of life experience and firsthand classroom observations that are invaluable. These experiences, when shared in collaborative spaces, help foster a supportive learning community. Artifacts and testimonials aligned with credible research can form the foundation of a community where members learn and grow both with and from one another.

As the demands on educators grow, the need for on-demand, self-directed learning experiences becomes clearer. Andragogy provides the framework that supports adult learners, offering flexibility, relevance, and practical application—all crucial for professional development. By embracing these principles, educators can engage in a more personalized, meaningful learning journey that not only enhances their own growth but also strengthens the entire educational community. With the right resources and a commitment to ongoing learning, teachers can shape their professional paths, ensuring that they remain empowered, motivated, and prepared to tackle the challenges of tomorrow’s classrooms.

At the Learning Hub, our members receive access to the instructional model folios, which can serve as a tool for teachers to self-assess against an evidence-based instructional model, identify areas that will stretch their current performance, and identify strategies to implement in their classrooms and determine if they are having the desired impact on their learners. Subscribe for full access to the Learning Hub using the link below to access resources that enable you to control your professional development. 

References:

Knowles, M. S. (1968). Andragogy, not pedagogy. Adult Learning, 16(10), 350-352.