Jeff and Group: I think we can use an adult learner's experience to advance the learning of the whole class. I tell my classes that they will benefit in three ways: Learn more about something they already know; learn new things they did not know; teach each other and me by sharing their own experiences.
John
Well said, Mary. Students, especially adult students, can tell if a professor is sincere and has respect for them.
Patricia,
Thank you for this post. Choice and control are two of the biggest motivators for any students, especially adult students.
Jeffrey Schillinger
Adult learners need to know why they are learning a specific topic and want to apply it to the current situation. They also want some control over the learning situation or at least be able to help guide the learning process. Most adults have been in charge of situations and do not do well with being told "just do what I say" without some further explanation. We also have to provide multiple levals of teaching for those that are visual, creative, logical, etc. Not every adult learner will learn in the same method and teachers have to be able to reach and motivate each person in style that they respond to.
An effective educator listens to student and respects them. Everyone has a story to tell and it impacts on their learning. If I know their story then I start to know their individual needs.
Also, I find that my students free up energy needed to learn when they feel safe in an environment. When I take students to clinical I have to let them feel safe, then they can learn. I teach them to go slow until they can go fast, or learn the basics and build on that knowledge.
Charlotte,
You have hit on one of the most important things to know about adult learners. They have to see how something matters to them.
Jeffrey Schillinger
Adult learners want to know reasoning behind the knowledge. I apply this idea by telling them the origins of a medical term or explaining the importance of knowledge as it relates to their board exams. This motivates them to learn and also helps them retain the material.
