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Online Professional Development for Adults: Utilizing Andragogical Methods in Research and Practice

Online Professional Development for Adults: Utilizing Andragogical Methods in Research and Practice
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Author(s): J. Bernard Bradley (American Council on Grant Writing, USA), John Rachal (The University of Southern Mississippi, USA)and Lin Harper (The University of Southern Mississippi, USA)
Copyright: 2014
Pages: 23
Source title: Adult and Continuing Education: Concepts, Methodologies, Tools, and Applications
Source Author(s)/Editor(s): Information Resources Management Association (USA)
DOI: 10.4018/978-1-4666-5780-9.ch023

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Abstract

Online professional development programs for adults are increasing in frequency. Numerous scholarly articles have been written that offer polemical or anecdotal evidence supporting the effectiveness of andragogically facilitated non-formal professional development courses, including those conducted online. However, few empirical studies have been conducted to validate their usefulness, especially those offered via the Internet. Such non-formal educational programming may be most conducive to both implementing and empirically testing a more purist definition of andragogy (Pratt, 1988; Rachal, 2002; Bradley, 2011). This chapter explores the theoretical frameworks of andragogy, as well as existing experimental or quasi-experimental research studies, with a view toward creating more learner-centered non-formal educational transactions that meet the unique needs of adult learners. Lastly, suggestions for both practitioners and researchers alike are offered to help build the body of evidence-based research and extend practical advice to educators when designing and facilitating virtual learning programs for adults that emphasize professional development.

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