Adult learning can be very different then how a child learns. It as proven by the research of two gentlemen, Malcolm Knowles and David Kolb. They both had their own, very similar, theories about the adult learner. Malcolm Knowles studied Andragogy and David Kolb researched experiential learning. In this paper, we will explore their theories and how it personally affects me.
Although Knowles theory can pertain and be applied to both adults and children alike, it’s focus is primarily to the adult learner. Andragogy, which was the emphasis of Knowles research, is centered around the how adults learn. Pedagogy refers to children. Knowles concluded there are six characteristics of the andragogy theory for the adult learner. …show more content…
Although, it can be slightly overwhelming. It is a lot of information to grasp. In my mind the way I classify his four principles is by feeling, witnessing, thinking and the act of doing. I cannot pin point one specific area I am strongest. I feel I am middle ground for all areas and it would depend the area of research, the learning style I would excel. This may be the case for other adults as well. Every adult learning is different, they have different personalities, different backgrounds in education and upbringing as well as different strengths and weaknesses. These differences allow for broader perspective on a certain topic, it allows for different viewpoints to be presented. With the four learning styles outlined above, I believe they all go hand and hand together to come full circle in understanding and learning. This model provides a foundation for learning and the ability to trigger critical thinking while writing research papers. Understanding the model will aid in understanding the material presented. The main perspective I can relate to with David Kolb’s model is that it is all about me. It can be self-paced, promote internal growth, academically and personally and flexible. It can be measured by my own abilities, strengths and …show more content…
Adult learners excel when they can relate to personal experiences and see the actual outcome. While grasping the concepts of the principles outlined in the adult learning models may be difficult at first, practicing these thought processes will aid in accelerated learning. His model is very different then what I was exposed to years ago, it is challenging to start back in school after many years. Online learning is not the typical sit in the classroom on hard chairs and listen to lectures for hours on end, then go home read more on the same topic and construct a paper. We don’t have instructors drilling the information into our heads. It takes time to develop your own routine and time management to adapt to the new learning environment. Adults will excel at their own pace with this environment and look to relate the topics to their own lives whether it be on a personal level or a project they are working on at work. It will take time to recondition to this learning style. I am confident with practice and routine exposure, I will