In spite of the widespread use of andragogy it has been the subject of many
debates. One of the frequent debates has centered on the question of what is
andragogy. It has been described as a theory, an approach, a philosophy, a set
of principles, a set of assumptions, and a method for the practice of adult
education and learning. The purpose of this study was to examine the
literature on andragogy in order to present a working definition. Once a
definition of andragogy is agreed upon a resolution to all the criticisms,
confusion, and debates may be possible. This study was a qualitative
grounded theory design to investigate the numerous definitions of andragogy
to aid in a systematic collection and analysis of the information available in
the literature. Adefinition of andragogy is presented. If all involved in the
field of andragogy can agree upon and accept this working definition, further
empirical research can be completed in the field's search for identity.