Applying Andragogy in Multi-Disciplined Learning and Teaching - Article Example

Andragogy is defined as the science and art of helping adults to learn. It has a long history of evolution and development. It was coined by Kapp Alexander in 1833. Chan notes that Knowles was instrumental in developing Andragogy into a theory in adult education. Knowles's andragogical perspective is based on six assumptions. These include self-concept, readiness to learn, the role of experience, internal motivation, the orientation of learning, and the need to know (Chan 26).

The author outlines the importance of human capital development to the global economy. He notes that for businesses to survive, there is a need to invest in modern machinery, technological advancements, and human capital (Chan 28). The latter factor is crucial when it comes to keeping up with the transformations that are taking place in the business environment. He notes that the competitive advantage of various businesses can be sustained via human capital development. The main objective of today’s education is to produce individuals that have multifaceted training. Knowles’ andragogical approach to education provides a solution to most of the problems that pertain to human capital development (Chan 27).

The author then delves into the applications of Knowles’ Andragogy. He notes previous research demonstrating that Andragogy has been adopted by various countries in multidisciplinary teaching and learning. Some of these countries include England, Germany and Russia. Chan also notes that the Andragogical approach has been incorporated into various disciplines including education, criminal justice, medicine, management and police training (Chan 28).

The author highlights several accounts that review the use of Knowles’ Andragogy in various fields and disciplines. He begins with Forrest (2006), who claimed that Andragogy is crucial in management education (Chan 28). Chan notes that the incorporation of an andragogical approach in management helps in the preparation of students for the working environment. Management instructors can tailor the lessons to satisfy the students’ interests. The student is involved in planning the learning activities and objectives. Andragogy enhances the communication between the instructor and the student.

Birzer (2004) explored the application of Andragogy in criminal justice (Chan 29). He noted that cognitive and behavioral education approaches had become embedded in the teaching of criminal justice. Andragogy provides a guide to the designing of learner-centered instruction. The purpose of this is to enhance the traits and competencies that are necessary for the criminal justice profession.

Chan notes that andragogical principles were applied by Bedi (2004) in the training of medical registrars. The registrars were engaged in active learning so as to gain practical skills (Chan 29). The andragogical approach has also been found useful in doctor consultations. For effective consultations, a doctor needs to practice active listening to patients. Doctors can be able to enhance the relationship and collaboration with patients.

The author also talks of Birzer (2003), who evaluated the application of Andragogy in the police training sector. Applying andragogical principles will help the police to become self-directed in crime handling (Chan 31). It will also enhance their problem-solving skills. In addition, Andragogy promotes the utilization of learning experiences. This is instrumental in police training. The instructor can employ case scenarios and encourage the police to utilize their experiences in dealing with various problems.

The author also proposes recommendations that are to be applied so as to expand the scope of Andragogy applications. He proposes that the andragogical practice should expand beyond the extent of the adult learner. The practice should consider political, social and cultural contexts. Research on other parts of the world should be carried out to examine the appropriateness of the andragogical approach (Chan 33).

In conclusion, andragogical principles and contexts are applicable in multiple disciplines. The Andragogical teaching approach has transformed the teaching philosophy around the world. It has been demonstrated that adult learners require the active transfer of knowledge more than passive. The author notes the various types of research which demonstrate the importance of Andragogy in various disciplines. Andragogy helps instructors to comprehend a learner’s behavior and establish the cause of the learner’s anxiety. It also encourages the learner to search for solutions and become self-directed. Read More