I agree. It is amazing how diverse adult education (or any education for that matter is). We always here that there are visual, audio and kinetic learners, so why not incorporate each way of teaching. I find that the hear, see it and do it technique is the best of teaching in my field.
I have always believed that a teacher's enthusiasm in the classroom is contagious! When we can project our excitement for being able to share our experience & knowledge with our students, they will be more comfortable and attentive....only good can come from that!!
I have become a big "fan" of small group activities. Students, especially adults, know their strengths AND their weaknesses.In a Math class, for example, when a student is having difficulty understanding the process or method used to arrive at a correct answer, he/she will be less embarrassed or anxious to ask for help from the people around them......this is also team building. The "buddy" system works!!
Hi Laura,
You can have case studies, projects, role playing, chapter presentations, field trips, etc. as group work.
Patricia
In today's society we are conditioned to listen effectively in short intervals (7 - 20 minutes). Therefore we must adapt instruction methods to that reality. That said, I need more ideas about how to create the fun and energy of active learning in my class. I do use lecture/discussion now, some peer review of English essays, and occasional group work. I would like more ideas about effective group work.
Hi Norma,
Active learning makes it more real and practical for the students so that when they get on the job they know exactly what needs to be done because they experienced it in the classroom. Active learning makes for a better employee.
Patricia
I've noticed with active learning it also allows students a chance at self assessment.
Hi Joel,
when you can retain a student, more knowledge is gained. Active learning can include all the various learning styles.
Patricia
At the end of the day the learning style of the student is critical. So active learning is a great way to integrate a more robust teaching method that addresses the multitude of learning styles that the audience has. The outcome is not only more "learning" but generally more retention which then equates to knowledge.
I am often surprised how receptive adult learners are when we implement strategies from our own experiences as students. Sometimes it is essential to think "outside of the box" of traditional teaching methods. It is nice when the gamble pays off.
In the medical field, part of the instructors' job is to help enhance the students' critical and analytical thinking skills. With a "see one, do one, teach one" approach to learning, I have found clear success guiding students toward a deeper understanding of the information presented by helping them develop a level of "professional common sense."
Through active learning, the students develop a deeper understanding of the information which makes them better prepared to apply the basic foundation presented in class to real-life scenarios they will be faced with in their chosen professions.
I agree with all of the comments in this forum. I tend to have classes where it is a 4-hour lecture type class and the students get bored and you get bored. I am always trying to find things to supplment a lecture. I use PowerPoints, have the students give their input, come up with some group work and have even used some games from my elementary/middle/high school days and the students get a kick out of it.
If you strictly do lecture, most students tune out after about an hour and then don't learn anything anyway. It is in our best interests to try and find ways to get them actively involved.
Hi Minerva,
We have to do what it takes to generate great excitement and interest during a 4-hour lecture. Mix the lecture up some, lecture, role play, group activities, hands-on, etc.
Patricia
I strongly agree with patricia students will tend to become bored with a 4 hour lecture there needs to be student activities involved.
Hi Jodi,
I feel as though that constant 4 hours of lecturing is not very effective. A student tends to begin to listen less if the lecture is too long and only lecturing is going on. A 4-hour lesson should include a variety of activities, role playing, group assignment, PowerPoint presentations, hands-on activity, etc.
Patricia
