Perspectives in AE— Adult Black males and andragogy: Is there a goodness of fit

Abstract

In this paper, andragogy, as presented by Malcolm Knowles, is critiqued as it represents European ideologies and ways of learning that fail to recognize the multifaceted experiences of adult Black males. With increased numbers of Black males entering post-secondary education spaces, new schools of thought need to be considered that are more culturally relevant. A theory for adult Black males proves beneficial for adult learning researchers and practitioners as noted experiences include racial profiling, isolation, and racism. This paper critically examines deficit perspectives of supporting adult Black males while whiteness and systemic oppression are targeted as barriers to their success. The paper concludes with implications for practitioners who work with or conduct research on this population.