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Pedagogy vs. Andragogy: What's the Difference?

Edited by Aimie Carlson || By Janet White || Published on November 20, 2023
Pedagogy focuses on teaching children, while andragogy centers on adult learning.

Key Differences

Pedagogy traditionally involves teaching children; Andragogy is the method of teaching adults.
Pedagogy often employs a teacher-centered approach; Andragogy promotes self-directed learning.
Pedagogy may rely on memorization and repetition; Andragogy emphasizes practical application and problem-solving.
Pedagogy typically follows a structured curriculum; Andragogy adapts to learners' experiences and needs.
Pedagogy can include a more authoritarian teaching style; Andragogy often involves a facilitative and participatory style.
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Comparison Chart

Target Audience

Children and young learners
Adults

Teaching Approach

Teacher-centered, structured
Learner-centered, self-directed

Learning Focus

Memorization, repetition
Practical application, problem-solving

Curriculum

Fixed and structured
Flexible, based on learners' experiences

Teaching Style

Often authoritarian
Facilitative and participatory
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Pedagogy and Andragogy Definitions

Pedagogy

Teaching Children
Her pedagogy is effective in elementary classrooms.

Andragogy

Experience-Based
Andragogy values the experiences adults bring to learning.

Pedagogy

Instructional Strategies
Effective pedagogy requires diverse strategies.

Andragogy

Adult Learning
His andragogy techniques are well-suited for adult learners.

Pedagogy

Education Methods
Innovative pedagogy can improve student engagement.

Andragogy

Self-Directed Learning
Andragogy emphasizes learner autonomy and self-direction.

Pedagogy

Teacher-Centered
Traditional pedagogy often focuses on the teacher's role.

Andragogy

Practical Application
In andragogy, practical application of knowledge is key.

Pedagogy

Educational Practice
Pedagogy evolves with new educational research.

Andragogy

Facilitative Teaching
Andragogy involves a more facilitative teaching approach.

Pedagogy

The art or profession of teaching.

Andragogy

The methods or techniques used to teach adults; adult education.

Pedagogy

Preparatory training or instruction.

Pedagogy

The profession of teaching.

Pedagogy

The activities of educating, teaching or instructing.

Pedagogy

The strategies or methods of instruction; an educational philosophy.

Pedagogy

Pedagogics; pedagogism.

Pedagogy

The principles and methods of instruction

Pedagogy

The profession of a teacher;
He prepared for teaching while still in college
Pedagogy is recognized as an important profession

Pedagogy

The activities of educating or instructing or teaching; activities that impart knowledge or skill;
He received no formal education
Our instruction was carefully programmed
Good teaching is seldom rewarded

FAQs

How does pedagogy differ for different ages?

It adapts to developmental stages and learning capacities.

Is andragogy only for the elderly?

No, it's for all adults, not just older individuals.

Does andragogy always involve self-directed learning?

Typically, as it empowers adult learners.

What is pedagogy?

It's the art and science of teaching, especially children.

What is andragogy?

It's the method and practice of teaching adult learners.

How does technology impact pedagogy?

It offers new tools and methods for engaging students.

Can pedagogy be learner-centered?

Yes, though it's traditionally more teacher-centered.

Can technology be used in andragogy?

Absolutely, it's often used for flexible and accessible learning.

Is pedagogy only about classroom teaching?

No, it encompasses all forms of educational instruction.

How do pedagogy and andragogy influence curriculum design?

They inform the structure, content, and teaching methods.

Can one be skilled in both pedagogy and andragogy?

Certainly, many educators are adept at teaching both children and adults.

Is collaborative learning part of andragogy?

Yes, collaborative and experiential learning are key elements.

Does andragogy apply to online learning?

Yes, it's quite effective in online adult education.

Do cultural differences affect pedagogy?

Yes, teaching methods can vary widely across cultures.

Are andragogy principles universal?

They're generally applicable but may vary based on context and culture.

How important is motivation in andragogy?

Extremely important, as adult learners are often self-motivated.

How do assessment methods differ in pedagogy and andragogy?

Pedagogy often uses standardized tests, while andragogy may use practical assessments.

Does pedagogy focus on group or individual learning?

It can encompass both, depending on the approach.

What role does motivation play in pedagogy?

It's crucial for engaging and retaining student interest.

Can andragogy principles be used for younger learners?

To some extent, especially for fostering independence.
About Author
Written by
Janet White
Janet White has been an esteemed writer and blogger for Difference Wiki. Holding a Master's degree in Science and Medical Journalism from the prestigious Boston University, she has consistently demonstrated her expertise and passion for her field. When she's not immersed in her work, Janet relishes her time exercising, delving into a good book, and cherishing moments with friends and family.
Edited by
Aimie Carlson
Aimie Carlson, holding a master's degree in English literature, is a fervent English language enthusiast. She lends her writing talents to Difference Wiki, a prominent website that specializes in comparisons, offering readers insightful analyses that both captivate and inform.

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