In this article, we will be discussing the difference between these two terms and how they can help us understand our teaching better. We will also discuss some of their applications in different fields like business, nursing, psychology, etc.
What Is Pedagogy?
The word "pedagogue" comes from the Greek language meaning "to lead or guide."
The term 'pedagogy' involves "teaching or training the young in habits of thinking and acting."
The role of teachers is to provide opportunities for students to learn through experiences rather than just through lectures.
Thus, pedagogy is basically a process of providing opportunities for learners to acquire knowledge and skills through experiential learning.
What Is Andragogy?
Andragogy means "leading the elders." It believes that adults are capable of developing new ideas and solving problems. They have the ability to think independently and act creatively.
Andragogy is a philosophy of teaching that emphasizes the development of individual potentials. It focuses on helping individuals become more independent and creative thinkers.
Adults need to be taught differently because they have already acquired certain abilities that make them unique. For example, they may have gained expertise in a particular field, such as medicine, engineering, law, etc., and therefore require special attention.
However, they may lack certain skills needed to solve everyday problems. Therefore, they need to be guided and encouraged to develop these skills.
Pedagogy Vs. Andragogy Main Differences
There are several differences between pedagogy and andragogy. Let us look at each of them:
1. Pedagogy focuses on acquiring knowledge, while andragogy focuses on enhancing the learner's personal growth.
2. Pedagogy is mainly concerned with the transfer of information, whereas andragogy is focused on the transformation of the learner. The goal of pedagogy is to teach specific content; however, the purpose of andragogy is to change the learner.
3. Pedagogy is generally associated with academic subjects like history, science, mathematics, etc.; however, andragogy can be applied to any subject.
4. Pedagogy is mainly concerned with the transmission of information; however, andragogy requires the learner to apply what they learn.
6. Pedagogy is often associated with formal instruction; however, andragogical activities involve informal interactions among learners.
7. Pedagogy is based on the belief that all people are equal; however, andragogy is based on the idea that everyone has different needs.
8. Pedagogues use lectures, tests, and homework assignments; however, andragogy encourages the learners to participate in discussions, debates, role-plays, and group work.
