Judgement
How can we change an adult-learner's use of judgement effectively in the classroom?
Cecilia,
This is a great idea! I will definitely incorporate this into my classroom.
Minerva ,
Very good. This is an excellent process for expanding perspective and knowledge for the students. Thank you for sharing.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
When teaching persuasive writing, I ask students where they stand on a particularly controversial topic and then have them argue the opposing view in their papers. This forces them to consider other pooints of view,and in doing so, many even change their opinions on the topic they were so sure about before.
Jeff,
Yes, available time is the a fundamental component of the strategy. Good point.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I think by emphasizing that there is a limited amount of time and often several ways to solve a problem. Each way may have a consequence and consider each possibility. Then to make the best decision possible. When teaching databases, I show how to limit the search through dates, subject, and resource type. When the class does an example, the students have the choice of performing a search with each of the examples or just one. It really depends on how much time the student wants to spend and how specific the search. What is the original research question and the best possible way to find the number of articles one needs for the assignment?
Cecilia,
Providing them with the example for comparison is a great way to train them. Nice work.
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
I teach students (many of whom are adult-learners) how to do research; part of this is training them to use their critical thinking skills on websites that they find on the internet, taking into consideration authority, accuracy, purpose etc. Then I compare what they found, to what they can get in our subscription databases. I think it helps them when they can see examples. I always tell them this is one way of developing their critical thinking skills.
John,
That is a great question and it seems to have many levels of implications. Given the broad nature of the question, my generalized response would be that we need to be sure to use instructional opportunities to incorporate critical thinking skills within the context of the content being taught. Do you have any more specific examples of the "effective judgment" that you're looking to change in adult learners?
Dr. S. David Vaillancourt
