learning abilities
Be positive about your students learning abilities. Everybody leaarns on different levels.
It is a challenge. I think using different presentation techniques helps alot. Mixing lecture with group and individual activities and using asmany of the senses as possible in presenting material is important.
I also talk to students about individual learning styles and strategies for each that hopefully make them more successful.
Toni
Yes, everyone does learn at different levels, and we have to be very conscious of that in the classroom. Sometimes I have to repeat the same thing a couple of different ways before the light bulb goes off for some students. Sometimes there is no other way.
Hi David,
Good explanation of how the diverse group of students can be worked with and understood. With the range of intelligence and motivation it is challenging for career college instructors. By having this understanding though an instructor can develop instructional plans that will meet the needs of the students and help them with their individual career plans and success.
Gary
I think we need to be realistic about students' ability to learn, neither too pessimistic nor too optimistic.
I have the impression, from reading different admission standards and financial aid regulations, that career college students need to have the "ability to benefit" from classes. Looking at the standardized test scores used and other requirements, it seems that evidence of having an IQ of at least 85 is considered the standard throughout the industry.
That seems like a realistic minimum standard. A person with an IQ of 85 can learn the skills to have a very stable job and act as a professional, especially if they are self-disciplined. However, we should not expect them to grasp complex, abstract ideas or become professional writers.
But we must also be sensitive to brighter students. Some students have the intellectual ability to go to traditional colleges, but because of family limitations, or because of personal interests, choose a trade school. We need to make the course work challenging enough so that they learn and progress. I think it is especially important to give formative feedback to these students since they are often the most motivated to learn from their mistakes.
THis is true - especially where I teach. It is a challenge to figure out different ways of presenting my material to be sure all the students understand. But, it is also a learning experience for me!
