What is Pedagogy and Andragogy

    Whenever we talk about Teaching Learning, we come across two terms so frequently and subsequently we tend to believe or think that both of these terms are synonyms  but today, I would like to pen down an article about the same so that the concepts are discussed nicely. And Yes, the terms am talking about are  "Pedagogy" and "Andragogy". All the Teachers, especially Teacher Educators have to talk about these concepts on and off. Both of the words have Greek origin, pedagogy literally translates to paidi (child) and ago (guide). Andragogy, on the other hand, means andras (man) and ago (guide). While both words refer to learning strategies, to both serve the same purpose of learning though both have their own distinct philosophies.

   

Pedadogy And Androgogy

      In brief, andragogy refers to the methods and an approach used in adult education (not higher education) and is directed towards self-actualization, gaining experience, and problem-solving. In contrast, pedagogy is an education method in which the learner is dependent on the teacher for guidance, evaluation, and acquisition of knowledge. Here, most of the people mingle these terms with each other. To, them The Teaching Learning methods used for early classes be it upto secondary classes or even upto senior secondary classes is Pedagogy and for the classes of UG or PG and above is Andragogy, is purely a misconception. 

Key differences between Pedagogy and Andragogy are as under:

Pedagogy	Andragogy
Learner is dependent on the teacher. Teacher is  the one who evaluates progress and assumes full responsibility for what is taught and its efficacy.	Learner is depending on self. The method requires self-evaluation and direction and self takes responsibility for the process
Learner comes to the table with little life experience. Child-like learning comes with a blank slate and the educator is one of the most influential figures, as peers likely have the same lack of experience.	Learner uses life experience as a foundation. Instructors build on existing knowledge and require an understanding of diverse backgrounds. Adults learn from the instructor, but also from one another.
Students advance once they have completed the necessary steps. Child learners are told what they need to do to master a topic in order to move onto the next one.	Learning is triggered by any number of life experiences and not necessarily led by a designated instructor. Learners don’t advance to another topic, but rather fill knowledge gaps as where needed.
Learning is prescribed by an instructor and sequenced in a way that makes logical sense. Topics are broken down into content units.	Learning is prescribed by self. Learners see a problem or knowledge gap and organize topics around life/work solutions.
Learners are motivated by external sources, such as parents and teachers. The topic is completed by a pass or fail grade.	Learners are motivated by intrinsic means: self-esteem, quality of life, problem-solving, and the quest for recognition. Topics are completed by mastery.