Core Adult Learning Principles of Malcolm Knowles

• Learner’s need to know

• Self-concept of the learner

• Prior experience of the learner

• Readiness to learn

• Orientation to learning

• Motivation to learn

Learner’s Need to Know

Pedagogy

• The student needs to know what they must do to pass

Andragogy

• Why• What• How

Self-Concept of the Learner

Pedagogy

• Dependant

Andragogy

• Increased need to be self-directed

Prior Experience of the Learner

Pedagogy

• Learner’s experience seen as of little worth

• Experience of teacher and experts is paramount

Andragogy

• Quality and quantity of experience

• Watch for habits, biases, and presuppositions

Readiness to Learn

Pedagogy

• Learners must be ready when the teacher tells them they are ready

Andragogy

• Ready to learn when life situation requires it

Orientation to Learning

Pedagogy

• Subject matter centered

Andragogy

• Life-centered• Task-centered• Problem-centered

Motivation to Learn

Pedagogy

• External– Grades– Parental pressure– Teacher approval

Andragogy• External

– Better jobs– Better pay

• Internal – Job satisfaction – Self-esteem– Quality of life

• How do our students fit this model?

January 6, 2005Barriers to Student Success

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• To increase the success of entering students at Southern Maine Community College by embedding best practices for college transition and student engagement in first semester courses