Life expericne allows for easier correlation to the material when appropriately tied in to the subject matter. This can foster increased motivation, which has a positive expectation when aplied to this example.
First, it gives them a sense fo what they have already accomnplished in their lives. It allows them to see that all there experiences have led them to where they are and who they are. It also shows how things work together and build upon each other.
Adult learners that are able to use their life experiences in the classroom are able to apply the material. When they are able to apply the material this helps motivate them to succeded because they can see the value of the course.
I have found that this is important to keep students engaged. They do a better job of remembering material they have experience with. Relating class material to their experience can make them feel that the material is approachable. Also, I try to relate class material to future situations and experience that they will gain. This helps them to "buy in" to the general education classes that I teach---usually the classes that they are not thrilled to take.
It is important for students with life experiences to be able to use them in the classrom for both their own education and the group as a whole. Adult learners need validation that what they already have learned is valuable, and this helps to motivate them to be successful in the classroom.
Many times a persons life experiences will help them in their new field. I find it helpful to ask many questions when students are working on assignments, and then I try to explain how their previos experience often applies to what they are currently working on.
It allows them to share their experience and what they learned from that experience.
It helps all in the class to think outside the box. We as instructors prepare students for careers but life experiences can add shape to what that career will be like in the real world.
I believe it helps the student feel comfortable in the new environment. It also gives them a sense of belonging when sharing his/her life/work experiences with their peers. I like it as it helps me in learning about the student and their needs in the classroom.
Paula
Allows them to feel as if they contribute to the learning environment.
by Ruth Whitaker
It is important for the adult learner to use their life experiences in the classroom because it makes the material being taught to them more relavent. Concepts are grasped more readily as well. It also fosters student participation.
Make them feel that their life has meaning and that their experiences have meaning as well. It validates who they are and authenticates their contribution to the learning environment. Learning is not confined to 4 walls....we tend to forget the college called Life in which we are all enrolled!
I feel they are more comfortable talking about things they know about. They are more willing to talk and discuss the topics.
Its a way to see where they have come from, what type of life they have had.
They can share their own knowledge with the group and through that all of them can understand how those experiences will relate to the subject matter that is being presented.
I believe that life experiences, both good and bad, can help the students see some of the highs and lows of their newly chosen career. Adult learners have life experiences that most younger students don't know anything about. They may become more of a mentor to the younger students they share class with. The younger students can than go into the field with a more complete understanding of the daily life.
I love the concept of using life experiences in the classoom. When we do that, we are showing that our experience has relavence, and is an example of the point being discussed. As for the students, it helps them to realize that their life experiences can be a valid part of their education.
Students learn more if they can connect life experience with the concepts being taught. I often get, "So that's why this happened to me..." The connection helps them remember the concepts.
Greetings Christopher and Rena!
Sharing experiences makes the academic part of learning more meaningful for the work place.
Keep up the good work!
Jane Davis
ED106 Facilitator
It is great way to share other people experiences to hear and to be heard
