Young minds vs older minds
The diffrence between older student are more addaptive in learing because of the maturity level verses the younger.
Richard,
This has been my experience as well. I really enjoy it when I have a mix of generations in my classes. We have some great discussions as a result.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
The younger student age range for my classes is between 25 and 30 with the older student ages 40 and higher. The younger students have some real world experiences that they positively contribute. I have seen some of my older students actually become mentors to some of these students because of their initiative and experiences.
Steven,
You hit upon the two extremes in relation to experience verses inexperience. Finding a balance between the two can be a challenge for an instructor. We need to select examples and case studies that will enable both the older students as well as the younger ones to contribute to problem solving and personal growth. To do so requires engagement and contributions from everyone and the willingness to listen and learn.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Younger students need assistance with learning about the steps and tools needed to make decisions, while older students often just need to learn what tools they need to make those decisions.
However, younger students can be very impressionable in this area, while older students can be stuck in their ways.
Mary,
You make a very good point about age diversity and the impact it has on student retention. I put my students into learning groups where I mix the ages and assign them case studies. I require equal contributions from every group member and as a result I see the different age groups develop respect for what each brings to the solution effort.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Sometimes having a large diversity in age groups can make it difficult for the older student to stay focused when the younger students (18-20) sometimes seem to be in class for a social event instead of learning. In this case, it can be very frustrating to the older students. When this happens, retention is very difficult.
Kevin,
This has been my experience as well. They stay engaged and focused as they are goal driven.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Another difference is that the older students take the time and effort to make sure that they are doing evrything the way it was explained to them.
Tartesa,
Good point and one we need to remember in working with older students.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
