Learning theorist Malcolm Knowles differentiated between pedagogical learning and andragogical learning, with his pedagogy defined by a more passive, teacher-driven approach and andragogy defined by an active, student-driven one. Many of us have had experiences with both pedagogy and andragogy throughout the course of our education. Perhaps it was in elementary and high school that you were a more passive learner, motivated by grades, waiting to be told what to study. Maybe this was your experience in college even. Then, as we chose our graduate school paths, we became more active agents in our learning and were more motivated internally – by our desire to pursue a career or become an expert in our field of interest.
Reflect back and compare/contrast those experiences with each other. Share your reflection with the class and consider this question: How might you use your experiences to mindfully craft a classroom for your adult online learners?
