Which term is used to describe the art of teaching adults?

The term used to describe the art of teaching adults is andragogy. This concept emphasizes that adult learners have different needs and motivations compared to younger students. Adults are often self-directed in their learning, drawing on their life experiences and applying them to new situations. Andragogy takes into account these factors, focusing on enabling adult learners to take responsibility for their own learning process, setting goals, and engaging in practical, experiential activities.

In contrast, pedagogy primarily refers to the methods and practices of teaching children and younger students, where the instructor typically takes a more directive role. Heutagogy, while related, focuses on self-determined learning and emphasizes learners' ability to take the initiative in their educational journey, which can sometimes overlap with andragogy but is more specific in its approach. Technagogy specifically relates to the integration of technology in teaching, making it less relevant to the specific art of teaching adults. Understanding these distinctions helps clarify why andragogy is the appropriate term for adult education.