Exercise: Contrasting Pedagogy and Andragogy
Purpose: Test Knowledge ideas about adult learning.
Directions:
1. Identify children at different ages and ask, “Tell me about yourself.” Note the answer. If the child asks you, “What do you mean?”, answer, “Oh, anything you want to tell me.” Document their responses.
2. Repeat question #1 with adults and document their responses.
3. Note the differences and similarities between the responses of the children and the adults.
4. Discuss your findings.
Expert Solution Preview
Introduction: This exercise aims to help students understand the difference between pedagogy and andragogy in terms of adult learning. Pedagogy refers to the education of children, whereas andragogy refers to the education of adults. By comparing the responses of children and adults to a simple question about themselves, students can identify the differences and similarities between the two approaches.
Answer: The exercise highlights several differences and similarities between the responses of children and adults. For example, children might focus on their age or grade, whereas adults might mention their occupation or hobbies. Children might rely on external factors such as their appearance, while adults might focus more on internal factors such as their personality or values. The exercise suggests that adults are more likely to have a broader sense of self than children and that adult learning requires a different approach than that used for children. By analyzing the responses of both groups, students can gain a better understanding of the challenges and opportunities of adult learning.