"Introduction to educational theories There are a number of educational theories that underpin the practice of teaching and learning. Some of the more widely used theoretical frameworks relevant to medical education are highlighted here. Andragogy: Knowles suggests that adult learners share the following characteristics (1): . Are independent and self-directed learners . Use accumulated experience as a scaffold for new learning . Value integration of new learning into their existing commitments . Value problem-centred approaches to learning . Have internal drivers for motivation to learn . Need to know why and how learning benefits the learner In any setting involving adult learners, these characteristics need to be considered when planning educational events. Constructivist theory: Learning occurs through the construction of new ideas or concepts built upon the learners' existing knowledge and experiences. As this is based upon an individual's own previous knowledge and experiences, new knowledge can beconstructed at the individual level, or be co-constructed by groups of learners within communities of practice (2)"--
