Understanding learner characteristics gives as a type of road map to use to aid the individual students.
In our classes we have varied age groups, cultural groups,groups with vastly different life and learning experiences. I find that particularly in the beginning classes I must pay close attention to all of these things so I can be sure I am reaching each learner. Often I have to try to find some way to reach a student who seems a bit overwhelmed or lost in the first weeks of class. I have come to realize that this time is very critical to retaining them; that if I can help them to have success early they are more likely to continue in the program.
Carol Kravitz
Hi Mariela,
Thank you for sharing your comprehensive approach to instruction. I can tell you have developed the ability to "read" students and then provide them with the necessary supports for success. Keep up the great work you are doing.
Gary
As an instructor I will need to be prepared to meet the challenge of diversity in all its forms - whether that diversity relates to age, culture, goals, or student needs. For example, knowing that a 20 year old student comes with a very limited background of experience and perhaps a more limited sense of reponsibility for their education and succes, translates into helping them develop career-appropriate behaviors and understanding of the new rules they will have to operate under in order to function appropriately in a college setting. This then defines my role as that of facilitator rather than enabler or baby-sitter. As a cultural diversity instructor I am very aware that students often are struggling under the burden of language deficiencies or ethnic behavior that is at odds with different social, classroom or academic settings. These cultural differences, therefore, will require my role to be that of role model in terms of behavior or procedures expected in my classroom. Although I am often blessed by being able to share in the same language if they are Hispanic or Latino, I am aware that sometimes I need to speak more slowly, show samples and do an "understanding check", especially for those cultures who always answer "yes," even when they don't understand what has just been explained to them. Understanding learner characteristics often helps in discerning whether accommodation is appropriate or possible without compromising on the instruction and the student meeting the course requirements.
It helps the Instructor develop appropriate lectures that will reach all of the different types of students. I teach software programs to a very diverse group of students. I make sure that I discuss the topic, show a visual, and then have the students do the commands with me. I have also found that positive reinforcement is very helpful in keeping my adult students engaged and from doubting themselves as often.
Hi Kelvin,
This is a common mistake we instructors make. We assume a knowledge base that may or may not be there. We need to baseline their knowledge and then build our instruction from there.
Gary
Hi James,
Exactly. This is what student centered targeted teaching is all about.
Gary
Having a base of knowledge in regards to the learner is important because the sometimes the learner needs to have a certain order or flow of delivery. The biggest mistake I have made is that I assume the student already has a base of knowledge in a subject only to realize I need to start at the beginning.
Hi Erica,
Right you are. This variety of instructional delivery and opportunity to "try" things our will result in more content retention and application by the students.
Gary
It allows the instructor to implement strategies prior to classtime and allows for modification within a narrowed spectrum as opposed to one that is open ended and seemingly boundless.
We as instructors need to be aware of the different types of learners so that we are addressing each student's needs. Each class will be a mix of very different individuals, so we need to always be varying our delivery ensuring we are reaching each one of them. Show them, tell them, and then let them try it for themselves. This way no matter what style they prefer, they will all understand.
Hi Karen,
I agree with you about the fun part of seeing a mixed class benefit from the experiences that others have. It is easy to forget that many of the "pups" don't have working knowledge of many of the items, technologies or language that we have made a part of our daily lives.
Gary
Hi Russ,
This is a great way to visualize the current group of students as you look at those that you have had previously that have the same characteristics. This makes your instructional planning much more accurate.
Gary
Students come from different backgrounds and life experiences. I always start my classes with each member of the class telling us something about themselves. Throughout the course, I refer back to everyone's specific experiences and expectations. I call on them to relate incidents from their past and use them to make the current subject matter more relevant. It becomes a learning tool for everyone.
Dr.Meers,
When I get the right mix in class I have fun watching how some of the "old dogs" begin learning new things while teaching the young "pups" something. I sometimes have to stop and explain some of my termology or slang to the younger students so that they understand what point I am trying to makes.
I find that reviewing the different characteristics before I write lesson plans helps me to remember former students who fit those characteristics which, then helps me plan different lectures, activities and tests that in the past seemed to elicit the best responses from those former students.
I think it helps the planning process because you can identify the different ways you may need teach one subject so that different people with different learning characteristics can all equally benefit from your teaching. An example is during a lecture not only should they listen and take notes, but maybe add in some visiual aids, interactive activities that will help keep students interested and EVERYONE engaged
All students learn in their own way, and understanding this process allows the instructor to challenge each student in an individual way. If a student is a more visual learning, then as in instructor I would utilize visual examples for that student.
It can help the instructor customize his leaning plan, catering to the different ages, cultures, and personal needs of the students.
Hi Jeff,
You are right on target with your comments. We move toward what interests and engages us. By knowing the population groups and how to approach them an instructor can develop lessons and activities that will capture the attention of the students and help them acquire the knowledge they need.
Gary
Hi Karen,
Well said. This has been my experience as well in working with diverse age groups. Life experience students really do approach the classroom differently from the beginners. One of the fun parts of teaching is to mix the two groups and let them share what each brings to the classroom. This really helps with developing respect for each other.
Gary
