Andragogy and self-directed learning were early attempts to define adult education as a unique field of practice. Both have been criticized for focusing on individual learners while ignoring sociohistorical context. Both continue to contribute to adult education theory and practice. (Contains 44 references.) (SK)

This book presents an overview of the body of knowledge about adult learning, including the context in which it takes place, who the participants are, what they learn and why, the nature of the learning process, the development of theory in adult learning, and other issues relevant to the practice of adult learning. The book takes into account…

Intended for adult educators, this book is a comprehensive overview and synthesis of what is known about adult learning. Part 1 describes the context of learning. Chapters 1-4 describe the following: the sociocultural context; the range of settings and ways they influence learners and the learning process; literature on who participates in formal…

In this updated landmark book, the authors have gathered the seminal work and most current thinking on adult learning into one volume. This book addresses a wide range of topics including: Who are adult learners? How do adults learn? Why are adults involved in learning activities? How does the social context shape the learning that adults are…