Adult-Gerontology CNS Practice Exam 2026 – Complete Prep Guide

The term that describes the unique characteristics of adult learning, as defined by Knowles, is andragogy. This concept specifically addresses the methods and principles used in adult education, recognizing that adults are inherently self-directed learners with distinct needs and motivations compared to children.

Knowles articulated that adult learning is characterized by several key assumptions: adults are more motivated to learn when they see the relevance of the material to their personal or professional lives, they draw on their life experiences to aid learning, and they prefer to take responsibility for their own learning processes.

In contrast, pedagogy refers primarily to the education of children, emphasizing a more teacher-directed approach. Lifelong learning focuses on the continuous, voluntary, and self-motivated pursuit of knowledge throughout one’s life, which, while important, does not specifically capture the essence of adult learning as Knowles describes. Valued learning is not a recognized term in the context of educational theories relating to adult learning. Therefore, andragogy is the most fitting term in this context, as it comprehensively encompasses the principles that guide effective adult learning practices.