International Research Foundation for Andragogy and the Implications for the Practice of Education with Adults

John Henschke, Lindenwood University

Abstract

This study searched the literature providing an international research foundation for andragogy. Six themes have emerged: the evolution of the term; historical antecedents shaping the concepts; comparison of American and European understanding; popularizing and sustaining the American and world-wide concept; practical applications; and theory, research and definition. Implications are provided for the practice of andragogy within the field of adults, continuing, community, extension, and human resource development education.