Understanding Diverse Learners
What are some ways you can learn about the needs of diverse learners?
Getting to know your students as individuals as early in the course as possible is one of the best ways of learning the needs of diverse learners. There should also be the realization that each student is unique and brings unique challenges for the instructor. Assessment also plays an important role in learning the strengths and weaknesses of the diverse learner.
I begin each class by having each student explain:
who they are, where do they work and what do they hope to gain from the course/program. This provides some common references and immediately provides feedback on where the students are and where they are hoping to go in the course, so I can tailor the delivery for these students.
I always try and get the age, background and reason that they are in the program to begin each term.
Every student learns differently. I use a questionnaire to find out how each student in my class learns the best. I incorporate these learning styles into the way I deliver the material.
Creating team projects, where randomly assigns students, can learn and share from the experience of the older learners. Having a diverse group work together is challenging, but at the same time is a great opportunity to share experiences and enhance the learning in the classroom. Regards.
Mine is similar to Craig's, At least 1/3 are military, being a veteran myself helps. 1/4 to 1/2 are either African American/black, Hispanic, about 1/4 white, small percentage of Mulims from the Mideast. Some from North Africa. Some have English as a second language, some have very heavy accents. I find that in scheduled classes it is sometimes hard to reach all of the students, but I then have quite a few review sessions where I can spend timec with those that need the help. I have learned a lot from all of my students. Some students refer to themselves as African American, some want to be called black. Some Hispnic students want to be know as being know from the country of origin.
I have learned a lot about the Muslim religion as well as Budda .
Some ways I can learn about the needs of diverse learners are (1) Differentiating Content - using various delivery formats, such as DVD, reading, lectures, or audio (2) Differentiating Process - process is how students makes sense of the content; it helps them to assess what they do and do not understand, and (3) Differentiating Product.
I agree with this. I usually mix up my groups by the ones that may be new to this type of learning and the ones who are more experienced. I think the diversity makes for better groups. Often times both sides learn a great deal from each other.
I always talk about learning styles on second day of a class to open up discussion with students. I have had many students come to me later in the term stating they tried some of the ideas I give them and they got great results! This always gives them encouragement.
You can take one of these maxknowledge courses on the topic. You can also learn about how learners of different ages deal with retention.
I like to start my first class with administering the VARK guide to learning styles or a similar tool.
As an instructor, I find that it is important to identify with my students as individuals. I often use Ice Breakers during the beginning of the semester to explore the students demographic background. In addition, I schedule conferences with students outside of lecture time to review and explore students diverse needs: this practice allows me to explore the students individual needs, in addition to monitoring their progress over the course of the semester.
I also use Howard Gardner's "Multiple Intelligence Theory" to identify the learning patterns of the students informally through classwork. I find that sometimes students aren't necessarily comfortable with sharing their individual needs, in turn, I use classroom observations and short-term assignments to identify the students diverse learning needs.
There are a few ways to learn about the needs of diverse learners. One of the best ways is to find out the first day by doing structured introductions. You tell them the introduction must include the following:
1. What is the reason your coming to school or taking this class?
2. Do you have any previous experience in this area?
3. What is your previous work experience?
4. Do you see any obstacles to your education?
You make them comfortable by giving your introduction first.
I have not only encountered diversity in the age groups, but also in cultural background. Living in a very diverse area our student body represents the local demographics of Hispanic, Asian, and African American. Each background bringing something new to the table in their interactions and it is often interesting to see them participate in group activities.
Byron,
this also helps create an environment where they will feel comfortable sharing more about themselves & approaching you.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
Ensuring that you take the time to meet with each student is key in their success! We have a practice at our school, where we meet with each new student week one of their time in the program....this allows us to introduce ourselves, in person and to make a connection. We then follow up with that everyday...not a formal meeting but in the classroom setting, we make sure that we pay attention and because their are two instructors, we are able to share our thoughts and concerns about particular students and we are better able to stay on top of any potential problems. We generate ideas together at what might better help the student be successful.
I do a introduction of my self, and have students do also. This is first start to learning about your students. I like to ask questions find out more about my students throughout the course.
Joseph,
yes, this is exactly why I like to encourage peer to peer learning.
Ryan Meers, Ph.D.
I agree, students who feed off each other tend to get the material down faster than those who work individually.
