The term "paragogy" refers to a learner-led approach to education. Interestingly, the spelling of the word is not intuitive. The first syllable, "para," is pronounced as in "parachute" with the stress on the first syllable. The second syllable, "gogy," is pronounced as in "pedagogy" with the stress on the second syllable. The IPA transcription is pærəgɑ:di. Despite its unusual spelling, paragogy is an important concept for educators to consider as it promotes learner autonomy and encourages self-directed learning.
Paragogy is a term that refers to a contemporary approach to teaching and learning that emphasizes learner autonomy, collaboration, and self-directed learning. It is a combination of the Greek words "para," meaning beside or alongside, and "agogos," meaning leader or guide. In other words, paragogy is a learning method that suggests learning should occur alongside and in partnership with peers, rather than relying solely on traditional instructor-led methods.
This approach acknowledges that individuals have unique learning needs and preferences, and that they can actively contribute to the learning process. Paragogical methods encourage learners to take ownership of their education by setting their goals, designing their learning paths, and engaging in self-reflection.
In paragogy, learners are viewed as co-creators of knowledge, and the role of the instructor shifts from being the sole authority to becoming a facilitator and collaborator. This approach often involves the utilization of technology, online platforms, and social media tools to connect learners and support their collaborative learning endeavors.
Paragogy emphasizes the importance of creating an inclusive learning environment where all participants can contribute and learn from one another. It also values the integration of diverse perspectives and experiences into the learning process, recognizing that each learner brings a unique set of skills and knowledge to the table.
Overall, paragogy promotes a learner-centered approach to education, focusing on fostering critical thinking, problem-solving skills, and lifelong learning competencies.
The addition of a letter or syllable to the end of a word.
Etymological and pronouncing dictionary of the English language. By Stormonth, James, Phelp, P. H. Published 1874.
The word "paragogy" is derived from the Greek word "para", meaning "alongside", and the word "agogos", meaning "leading". It was coined by the researchers Joseph Corneli and Charles Jeffrey Danoff in 2008 to describe a collaborative and learner-centered approach to education. The term "paragogy" was specifically developed as a framework for understanding and implementing self-determined and self-directed learning processes.