Joseph,
Oh, I like that phrase "a bit of adrenaline rush" which is so true.
Renee Shaffer
for many returning to education after a lapse, these active learning techinques can provide a bit of adrenaline rush with all the room to explore and create individual boundaries
I would say an older student in the online environment has the potential to flourish. The potential is greater in an active learning format online versus F2F or other type of educational structure.
Cheers,
Steve
From my experience both online and F2F in higher education I've found that the dynamic and mentality of the older student is quite different in each. In F2F classrooms; often the older student tends to take the lead in collaborative projects and/or assignments and typically initiated discussions. Online, older students tend to be more reserved/introverted and would often depend on younger peers for initiation, guidance and even advice. This was especially true in courses dealing with technology or software.
As a result, I feel an older online student would find comfort in a more active-learning online environment.
Paula,
I also think that we need to give student directions and guide them to what critical thinking really is. Many just don't knoow what we expect of them.
Renee Shaffer
I could see it both ways. A more mature online learner might welcome a change from traditional teaching methods. It's possible that this student did not do well in a traditional classroom years ago and that is why he/she is just now getting back into the educational arena. Having said that, I could also see a more mature aged student cringe at having to learn new methods and be assessed quite differently than they ever have been. So it's a toss up.
Hi Renee,
An older student may struggle with the concept of active learning initially. It is never easy to embark upon something new and if a student hasn't been in school for awhile and then returns to find this "new" manner of learning, they may have a bit of difficulty. I do believe however, that if it is presented in the correct manner, the older student will embrace it. The active learning technique does require independent thinking on the part of the student, but it also allows them to share talents, skills and prior knowledge through interesting activities and projects. This is something that I feel an older student would ultimately appreciate.
Paula Bordenkecher
I find older students collaborate more because they have more to share based on experience.
Terri Beth,
Yes, many faculty who use active learning techniques run into students who say that the faculty "aren't doing anything" and some how the students are "getting the short end of the stick".
Renee Shaffer
Hello, Classmates!
I think that older online students can initially feel apprehensive in the active classroom, especially if they actually start to "enjoy" the process because it feels almost counterintuitive to think that learning can be fun. The old "sage on the stage" paradigm was so prominent for so long that when the students themselves are actively involved in the process, it can feel more like play than serious learning for those students who have never been involved in an active classroom. However, once students begin to see the relevance of the work being done, its applicability to the assignment or course objectives they are there to master, they seem to become very excited and very engaged. The biggest hurdle is in helping them to trust the process initially.
Best,
Beth
Carolyn,
They are so unaccustomed to different learning techniques. It is a brave new world for them
Renee Shaffer
Since I have been teaching I have had several older students and I feel they are amazed how different online classes can be with the different learning techniques. Many times I have found they may have a harder time at first but get the hang of how to interact etc.
Eric,
Mine too. They seem to be more motivated and know what they want.
Renee Shaffer
Bob, I agree. The decision making abilities of older adults (with an education) are typically more comprehensive and inclusive of legal/ethical considerations.
Older students tend to do the best in online classes I have taught since 2001. The more experienced, the more they have to contribute. I also think that the responsibilities (work, family, etc.) add to their motivation to learn. Quite frankly, my favorite students (those who turn in assignments on time and demonstrate a thirst for learning/application) have been of the 35+ year range.
I agree with your comments. It also makes a difference for students that have come through their undergraduate program. The students familiarity and comfort level with the subject also plays a significant role. In healthcare, students that have worked in the field are more accepting of the learner centered approach as it is experiential.
I’ve found that older learners are surprised by how engaging a student centered approach can be. They are particularly attentive to the material and quick to join in the learning experience. Immersing students in the course topics with real life examples connected to the course concepts is consistently well received. I try and make relevant experiences of my days with patients and hospital administrative staff asking students to make decisions. Many of these decisions are controversial and can be quite challenging.
Instructors probably have a more difficult time adapting to the student centered approach!
I believe that they could feel nervous or even overwhelmed. It is important to take that into consideration.
Beth,
Those are true barriers for the older students. Older and wiser....:)
Renee Shaffer
As stated, much of the success of the online student depends on the student themselves, regardless of age. However, for the older student, fear of being back in school, use of technology, competition with younger students, time management, failure and general life scheduling can all add a terrifying component to returning (or beginning) an online program. After all, that, now the online environment is asking them to learn differently, nothing like what they remember, to complete this adventure. It's surprising they continue on at all!
The answer however, again, lies with the individual. For those who have made a true and strong commitment, they find a way to set aside time, ask for help from their friends and family (or instructor) and stay focused on the end goal. It isn't easy, but the older student definitely has the advantage in this area which can overcome any concerns.
