Instructing for the first time
Although working in the field for 16 years, as a new instructor it will be very challenging to share the infromation in a format that will keep adult learners motivated. Patient education flows without problems; as they are interested in their well being.
Being able to find the "perfect mix" of slides and presentation is the true challenge for first time teachers.
I appreciated your comments. I am looking forward to the challenges. I feel the students can learn only if they put enough effort into the subject at hand. There is always something more to learn for both the student and the instructor. Preparation and presentation are essential to the student's grow and maturity.
I have found that too many instructors get caught up reading each slide word for word and forget to teach. I find that if you truly have a strong grasp of the information that you are teaching, that the powerpoint only aids in giving you talking point to start your topics a little at a time. Students learn better when the info flows from you rather than forcing it.
One of the reasons why the students aren't retaining the information taught is that they are overwhelmed with other things in their life such as putting food on the table. I have several students in my class who are working and going to school at the same time. These students do not get adequate rest. They are stressed. Stress especially distress is not conducive to the learning environment. That's why instructors should utilize their classroom time efficiently to present the crucial materials...leave out all the fillings and cut right through the heart of the matter.
Adult Learners are interested in information that is relevant to their life, work and task at hand. When presenting information to this group, it is important to help them to see how the new knowledge can benefit them or improve their situation.
Your comments are true. As new instructors we must remember that we are not teaching children, but facilitating adult education. The participants in our program are vested through money and time.
Lisa;
I agree about customer education, because I found that they were very interested in what made their car tick. I think that where we will establish a link with our students is that most of them chose their learning path because they were interested in what they are now studying, regardless of how much experience they have in the career. Knowing that, and knowing about what we are teaching will make the process more managable.
