Nursing Professional Development Certification (NPD-BC) Practice Exam

Which of the following is a characteristic of adult learning according to Malcolm Knowles and the theory of andragogy?

1. Team-directed

2. Theoretical

3. Flexibility

4. Relevancy-oriented

The correct answer is: Relevancy-oriented

In Malcolm Knowles' theory of andragogy, a key characteristic of adult learning is that it is relevant to the learner's experiences and life situations. Adults are often more motivated to learn when they see the immediate applicability of knowledge and skills to their personal and professional lives. This relevancy-oriented approach emphasizes that learning should be connected to real-world applications, as adults tend to seek out education that improves their work performance or addresses specific challenges they are currently facing. This focus on relevance means that learning experiences should be designed with the adult learner's needs in mind, incorporating their prior knowledge and experiences to make connections that enhance understanding and retention. Therefore, understanding that adult learners thrive when content is meaningful is crucial for developing effective educational programs for this demographic.