Age variance
How can I better teach a subject in order to relate to such a wide age variance in my class. It would seem that the older demographic group prefers a consise, no-nonsense approach and the younger group wants to be drawn in or engaged with "props" or memory enhancing ideas.
David,
This has been my experience as well. I like having them in class because they have so many life experiences that contribute to our discussions and they help the younger students to understand the value of what is being taught.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I have found that older students can be natural leaders in the classroom and can improve classroom culture.
I have done something similar to try to engage students from all age groups.
When using technology (something the younger students LOVE and some of the older students FEAR), I try to group students heterogeneously and then assign everyone a specific task. That way, a technophobic student can be assigned the job of taking notes while the most technically gifted student can be assigned to troubleshoot technology problems and issues.
Taiwan,
This is a good way to get every student to spend some time reviewing the syllabus. This will raise the level of accountability for them as well as let them know exactly what the expectations are for the course.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I have found older adult students tend to fully read the syllabus while younger adult students tend to just look it over briefly. Therefor I usually hand out a Syllabus Quiz on the first day that covers all the important points covered.
Kay,
I use small group work for the same reason. Gives each student an opportunity to connect with other students and contribute to the discussions and case studies.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I agree and use both small group type activites and open classroom discussions.
Brandon,
This has been my experience as well. I use small group work to get the different generations working together with a common goal. When they are working together they start to draw on each others experiences which increases the respect they develop for what each group member is contributing.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
There is typically at least two decades between my youngest and oldest student. I have often found the varying generations tend to learn differently, but using class activities like a group discussion seem to help in multiple ways. Not only is everyone engaged but the variance in age and approach to learning seems to help the students learn from each other and develop skills they may not have acquired otherwise.
Sonya,
This has been my experience as well. I use group discussions and small group problem solving a lot in my classes as the exchanges between the different generations really expand when they are working on mutual goal projects.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I try to us a variety of different actives to try to appeal to all age groups in the class. I have found that group discussions help to bridge the gap. During the discussion both age groups learn from each other and they learn about each other as well.
Nartasha,
I commend you for your effort in this area of blending different generations of learners. Sounds like you have enough activities that each student in your classes has an opportunity to become a part of the learning community and contribute in their own unique way.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I have the same problem with my classes. I learn that I have to work with both groups and learn my students’ ways of learning. At times, I may have students do group works, have group discussion, and/or watching videos to get students to learn. It is a trial and error scenario but to see students grasping and understanding the subject is worth it; no matter what the age difference are.
Valerie,
Strive for a balance of activities that incorporate both. I use a lot of small group work and case studies to get both generations involved in the teaching learning process.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
