Motivating
Any ideas on motivating the adult learner??
I have found that engaging the students in discussion rather than stand in front of them and do the all the speaking really gets them invovled. It allows them to share stories of their experiences and how they handled situations.
I believe in looking into the past experience and discussing why they decided to become a student. Focus on career changes and discuss goals.
Nadh,
Something I do that has produced great results is to have clear cut accomplishments throughout the course. For example I make a big deal and we have a celebration when we have completed the first phase of the course. I review with the students the vocabulary they have acquired as well as the new skill sets they have. Then I show them how these new knowledge applies to the next segment we are going into. This way they stay motivated throughout the course as well as their entire training program.
Gary
Some adult learners tend to be more impatient and lose sight of their goals. How can we improve their desire to learn when classes run long? Currently, I would remind them of the usefulness later on when they prepare for certification exams.
Karin,
This is so important if they are going to see the relevancy and application to what they are learning.
Gary
I agree! Allow your students to come up with new styles for classroom activities.
I like to make what they are leaning part of their own everyday life so that it becomes more personable to them.
Tami,
Talk with then individually and see if you can determine why they are enrolled in the course and school in general. Then develop some activities that will show them relevance and application to what they are learning. Also, look for ways to generate excitement and enthusiasm in the classes and labs so they will become engaged in the learning process. Use work groups and problem solving along with role playing to help them see the value of the content.
Gary
