Alley or Autobahn? Assessing 50 Years of the Andragogical Project

Abstract

Fifty years after the publication of “The Modern Practice of Adult Education,” andragogy has significant presence in English-language adult education and related fields. This article takes stock of the development of this mid-century intellectual project. The context of mid-century adult education in North America is described, and the rhizomatic relationship with previous instances of the idea is examined. The effects of the project on practice and theory are considered and difficulties regarding lack of theoretical development and empirical investigation are identified. The discussion argues that the continuation of the andragogical project depends on development of key aspects, including stronger connections with international manifestations of andragogy.