Andragogy in Online Education: Empowering Adult Learners

Abstract Rooted in andragogy (Knowles, 1973, 1980, 1984, 1988), this chapter serves as a practical guide for online faculty members, exploring its real-world applications in adult education. Drawing from the autoethnography of a faculty administrator’s educational and professional experiences, it offers tangible strategies for empowering fully online adult learners. By spotlighting the six andragogy principles—self-concept, learner experience, readiness to learn, orientation, motivation, and active learning, it provides real-world insights into integrating diversity, equity, inclusion, and anti-racism (DEIA) principles into online teaching practices.