Defined as the science and art of helping adults learn, the practice of adult education is referred to as andragogy, to distinguish it from the traditional school-based education for children pedagogy. Unlike children, adults are seen as:
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More self-directed, rather than relying on others for help
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Mature and therefore experienced with the experience providing a rich source for learning
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Adults readiness to learn is linked to what they need to know
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Adult orientation to learn is problem centred rather than subject centred
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Adult motivation to learn is internalh
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adult_education
Lifelong Learning
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Formal – Structured learning that typically takes place in an education or training institution, usually with a set curriculum and carries credentials,
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Non-formal- Learning that is organized by educational institutions but non credential. Non-formal learning opportunities may be provided in the workplace and through the activities of civil society organizations and groups
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Informal education-Learning that goes on all the time, resulting from daily life activities related to work, family, community or leisure (e.g. community baking class)
http://en.wikipedia.org/wiki/Adult_education