Core Adult Learning Principles of Malcolm Knowles Learners

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 Andragogy • The student needs to know what they must do to pass • Why • What • How

Self-Concept of the Learner Pedagogy Andragogy • Dependant • Increased need to be self-directed

Prior Experience of the Learner Pedagogy Andragogy • Learner’s experience seen as of little worth • Experience of teacher and experts is paramount • Quality and quantity of experience • Watch for habits, biases, and presuppositions

Readiness to Learn Pedagogy Andragogy • Learners must be ready when the teacher tells them they are ready • Ready to learn when life situation requires it

Orientation to Learning Pedagogy Andragogy • Subject matter centered • 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, 2005

• 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