Plain English Meaning
How adults learn, and how instructors should teach them. Adults learn differently from children — they want to know why something matters, they bring real-world experience to the lesson, and they expect to apply what they learn right away.
Full Definition
The art and science of teaching adults, based on the principle that adult learners are self-directed, draw on prior life experience, and learn best when the material is relevant to their goals and immediately applicable.
Context Anchor
Seen in aviation instructor training when discussing how flight instructors help adult student pilots learn effectively.
Derivation
From the Greek 'aner/andros' meaning 'man' or 'adult,' and 'agogos' meaning 'leader' or 'guide.' Literally 'leading the adult.' It is the adult counterpart to 'pedagogy,' which comes from the Greek for 'leading the child.' Knowing this contrast makes the term easier to remember: pedagogy is for kids, andragogy is for grown-ups.
Why Pilots Care
Most flight students are adults who learn best when instruction builds on their experience and shows relevance to flying .