ANDRAGOGY
Merriam and Caffarella (1991) pointed out, Knowles conception of andragogy is an attempt to build a comprehensive theory (or model) of adult learning that is set in the characteristics of adult learners (as cited in Smith,2002,pg.1) Dr Malcolm Knowles was one of the early advocates of continuing professional development. The educational term andragogy was coined by Dr. Knowles. Dr. Knowles focused on finding a coherent and comprehensive theory of adult learning. He felt that the center point should form informal links between people, believing that people could learn a lot from others. Knowles developed the term into a set of principles designed to encourage adult learners to move from dependency to self-directedness. He also believed adult learners could draw upon their reservoir of experience for learning. He also acknowledged that adult learners are ready to learn, when they assume new roles. They want to solve problems, and apply new knowledge immediately (Margerison, 2005).
Accordingly, Knowles adult facilitators should set a cooperative learning climate. Adult learners could also create mechanisms for mutual planning and arrange for a diagnosis of learner needs and interests. This would enable the formulation of learning objectives based on the diagnosed needs and interests of the learners. According to Smith (1999),”The facilitators would then design sequential activities for achieving the objectives, execute the design by selecting methods, materials, and resources and evaluate the quality of the learning experience while diagnosing needs for further learning”. Andragogy is defined as 'the art and science of helping adults learn,' as an alternative to pedagogy. A key part of Andragogy was Knowles' effort to introduce learning contracts, where each person outlined learning aims in a given period, and the way they would achieve them. This is now being used more widely in organizations as part of the appraisal and learning and development...