Example education dissertation topic 10:

Health care education: Facilitating problem-based learning with inexperienced students.

Though there are clear areas of similarity and overlap in the teaching of adults and children, there are also significant differences. This is where a sound grasp of the theory and methods of facilitation underlined by andragogy is needed so as to maximise the learning potential of each adult learner. The specific challenge faced by educators that is addressed by this dissertation is how best to ensure active participation of all adult learners within a group-work/role play exercise: this particular curriculum task moulds the need to solve a problem based learning outcome with the need to work successfully in a group environment. Using a range of theories as well as qualitative research this dissertation provides a practical guide to best practice of andragogy.

Suggested initial topic reading:

• McClimens, A., Bosworth, D., Brewster, J. and Nutting, C. (2012) ‘Contemporary issues in the training of UK health and social care professionals — Looking after people with a learning disability’, Nurse Education Today, not yet published.
• Merriam, S. B. (2001), Andragogy and Self-Directed Learning: Pillars of Adult Learning Theory. New Directions for Adult and Continuing Education, 2001: 3-14.
• Pratt, D. D. (1993), Andragogy after twenty-five years. New Directions for Adult and Continuing Education, 1993: 15-23.