Differences in Learning

What are the differences between how a child learns and how an adult learns

Child learning is built on the concept that children need to be fully guided on what they need to learn , how they will learn it and when it will be learned . Pedagogy is the art and science of teaching children (Knowles , 1984 ,

. 13 . This type of learning promotes dependency of the learners on the teacher or instructor . The counterpart of pedagogy is Andragogy ' which is the art and science of helping adults learn (Knowles , 1984 ,

. 13

. It is assumed that adults have capabilities to take responsibility for learning so that there is more independence from the teacher or instructor

Curricula for child learning are very much controlled . They are age specific so that children depend much on what the teacher will teach and it is expected that the teacher will provide all the answers . For adult learners , teachers do not have much control of the curriculum and they are not expected to provide answers but only to guide the adults to find the answers . It is expected that adults have basic knowledge and experience so that their kind of learning is more self-directed

Children are more subject-centered while adults are more performance-centered . When children learn , they are guided by role models and substitute knowledge and experiences of others . Teachers tell them when situations are worth following and when situations are to be avoided . Adults learn by performing in their own environment and problem situations . Children 's learning is enhanced by rewards and punishments To recognize their acquired learning and also to encourage them to learn more , they are provided with rewards like high grades good feedback like very good , excellent and even gifts . Adults are more goal-oriented Their readiness allows them to immediately apply their learning to achieve their goals

Reference

Knowles , M Associates (1984 . Andragogy in Action . Applying modern principles of adult education . San Francisco : Jossey Bass...