The Christian Educator’s Handbook on Adult Education
Overview
For nearly thirty years the general education field has directed considerable attention toward answering the question of how adults learn. With Handbook on Adult Education, evangelicals can join the discussion. This volume represents one of the first comprehensive attempts by evangelicals to apply adult education theory to Christian education. Contributors from across the evangelical spectrum present interpretation, application, and critique of the education model of influential adult education specialist Malcolm Knowles. . . all from a biblical perspective. The result is a highly practical volume composed of applied, theoretical, and age-specific chapters. It will appeal to both those in ministry and in higher education. Also included is a chapter by Knowles, reflecting on his contributions to Christian adult education.
Top Highlights
“utilizes strategies for instructional experiences suited to the characteristics and needs of the learners” (Page 26)
“Instead, flexibility and an intense attention to individual persons color each approach.” (Page 14)
“He used daily life for object lessons at teachable moments.” (Page 17)
“One common denominator in each encounter—Jesus spoke the truth to the people involved. He discerned the reality behind the questions and dealt with actual issues, not superficial ones. He knew His audience, their backgrounds, their interests, the ways in which they perceived themselves. He spoke to this self-perception, whether a sinner recognizing her need for forgiveness or a scholar, comfortable in intimate knowledge of the law. He never ignored the significance of self-concept in the adults He taught.” (Page 16)
“The Effective Adult Educator Concentrates on the Development of Seriousness” (Pages 26–27)
The variety of topics addressed, the andragogical model utilized, and the expertise of the contributors combine to offer Christian educators a manual that provides a solid biblical and theoretical base and hands-on guidance for maintaining a program of adult education.
—C. Ferris Jordan, Theological Educator
- Title: The Christian Educator’s Handbook on Adult Education
- Editors: Kenneth O. Gangel and James C. Wilhoit
- Publisher: Baker
- Publication Date: 1998
- Pages: 360
Kenneth O. Gangel (Ph.D., University of Missouri) is now executive director of the graduate studies division at Toccoa Falls College. Prior to taking this post, he was a distinguished professor at Dallas Theological Seminary. A noted expert on Christian education, he has written many books, including Feeding and Leading.
James C. Wilhoit (Ph.D., Northwestern) is professor of Christian education at Wheaton College. He has authored a number of scholarly articles and books, including Christian Education and the Search for Meaning.