Module 1/4 20 min
Adults learn differently from children
Step 1 / 3·Knowles' six principles
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Learning objectives — after this module you will:
- Grasp the 6 principles of adult learning
- Distinguish andragogy (teaching adults) from pedagogy (teaching children)
- Derive design implications from each principle
Learn ~7 min
Knowles' six principles
Understand what makes adults learn effectively.
Malcolm Knowles popularized ANDRAGOGY — the science of teaching adults, in contrast to pedagogy (teaching children). Adults aren't 'big children': they bring experience, are self-directed, and learn for practical reasons.
6 andragogy principles and their design implications
| Principle | Adults... | So you should... |
|---|---|---|
| Need to know WHY | want to know 'what's this for' before learning | open with a real problem and specific benefit |
| Self-concept | want to self-direct, dislike being talked down to | give choices, empower, respect them as adults |
| Rich in experience | bring life experience as a resource | tap their experience, allow peer sharing |
| Readiness to learn | learn when it's needed for their current role | tie content to their real work and challenges |
| Problem-oriented | learn to SOLVE PROBLEMS, not for abstract knowledge | organize around situations, not theory topics |
| Intrinsic motivation | are driven by self-growth more than external rewards | connect to career goals and meaningful work |
Key takeaway: 6 principles: need-to-know, self-directed, experienced, ready, problem-oriented, intrinsically motivated.