It gives the instructor some insight on who the learner is and what his/her capacity is to the plan or course, and how to best facilitate information so that all ages and cultures understand the lesson.
Understanding learner Characteristics helps in the planning process because a good instructor can/will tailor his lesson to his students.
Good question Dr. Meers, thanks for asking.
This question directly relates to the fields of design and marketing.
By knowing your audience (students/class) you can deliver the product (education) in a way that they will willingly buy into.
Much like marketing, the more diverse the target group, the more watered down the material will need to be so it can be accepted by the group as a whole.
I'm not suggesting that we cater to the lowest common denominator—quite the contrary. If we want our product to outsell the competition, then we either have to focus on one major demographic, or (as we do in an instructional capacity), diversify our product line.
The more we know about or students, the more assured we can be that they are getting and retaining the information because we are able to supply their desire to succeed in a variety of ways (audio, visual, written, kinesthetic).
Not to mention that the better we know the students, the less likely it will be to have a miscommunication of materials, rules, etc. because we will already have built a rapport with them as individuals and will know their personalities, successes, limitations, and fears.
Having said all that. let me summarize.
We are able to address the class as a whole, yet communicate to each student as an individual. This allows planning of class materials to be created and presented in a variety of forms, that will not only benefit the individuals student(s), but the class as a whole.
I understand in todays day and age we need as People as well as instructors to be more attune to our fellow man and students specific needs.
New students young or old have different fears. Knowing these fears helps the instructor relate to the student in a way that will let the students know that the instructor understands what they are afraid of. The instructor can then adjust his or her way of addressing a particular students needs. All students can not be treated the same in this area. If a students is left to think that nobody understands their fears and cant get help the student will vote with their feet and possably leave school. The different learning abilities of students can creat an atmosphere of segrgation in the classroom. Students that may be less capable of learning at the speed the class is taught may loose confidense without the extra understanding from the instructor.
I did just that. I also want to change up the groups periodically so each student will have a chance to work with other groups and the impact that each group working together has on each other.
Hi Randy,
One of the ways you can tap into the diversity of the class plus help the students to get comfortable with each other is to assign students to learning groups. These groups can work together on case studies or problems and then report out. In the groups they develop an appreciation for each other and the contributions that each person makes.
Gary
Hi Rulon,
I agree with your assessment of older students. They are a valuable resource for the class if we tap into their life experiences and knowledge. Keep up the good work of encouraging and supporting their learning success.
Gary
In this educational environment, diversity is a way of life. Our students come from so many diverse backgrounds that an instructor can't separate students based upon age or ethnicity. One of the first things I try to do on the first day of class is go through a 15 question survey that each student reveals about who they are and what their goals are. This is very beneficial. The question I have is that even though this is good for the first day, I want to be able to challenge the students to also look at the diversity in class and throughout the course. What is a good way to do this?
On the college scene knowing that older adults often return to complete degrees that have been shelved for several years is expected. Teaching older adults is a treat because these students bring experience and wisdom that benefits younger students. So, it is extremely helpful to know the nuances of older students. They need more one-on-one attention, and more time to complete assignments until they are comfortable in a learning environment again. They thrive and bloom when asked to help younger students. Learning objectives need to anticipate adult learners being in the classroom.
that it will help the instructor by knowing the best way to teach them, base in they're skills or
learning styles, that way we can set a plan to help them better.
Hi Douglas,
Good way to start a class off. With this method you are helping your students to start to see themselves in their future if they are successful in your course. They need to be forward focused as they progress in their training or they will soon become discouraged and regress.
Gary
Hi John,
Good thoughts about how to work through the syllabus. By keeping students focused on the course requirements and reducing confusion learning can progress at a much quicker rate.
Gary
Hi John,
Thanks for those words of inspiration. We, instructors do get tired and beat down with all that we do but with attitudes like yours we can bounce back and remember why we are teachers in the first place. Teaching is a great profession even with some of the challenges we face.
Gary
I beleive we need to understand them so we know what is in their life. I really don't know what is going on with them until I can talk with them one on one and during class discussion too. The first day of class I like to ask them their goals in school and after school.One year, 3 year and 5 years. This helps me to lower their defenses as they see I care about them and am interested. Also the rest of the class sees that there is a common thread connecting them.I can then evaluate their learning characteristic and use that as a tool to motivate.
Gary, in addition to being clear on course expectations and requirements, it also allows time for discussion in understanding a mistake in the syllabus. Somehow it happens once in a while where I have stated two different things in two different parts of the syllabi. While I do my best to not to have things like this occur, it sometimes does. So in going through the syllabi one can address these issues immediate thereby eliminating confusion. Just some thoughts, John
Gary, I agree that students need validation. However, sometimes I get so tired in a class; because of the day’s activities it is hard to stay focused on the students. I would rather just get through the class and go. There always seems to be a student or two that latches onto this to try and get my goat.
Rather than respond to this kind of activity, I try to pick out a few positive things about the class or students to get me going. After a few positive comments I get fired up and ready to go. It may not work for everyone but it works for me. Thank you, John
Hi John,
Students really need validation and support in order to develop the self confidence needed for their career success. We need to be ready to provide that support when ever possible.
Gary
Hi Angelo,
Thank you for the comments about being clear on course expectations and requirements. When the students understand what is going to occur in the course they can see how they are going to have to prepare in order to be successful.
Gary
Hi Dennis,
Another advantage to involving your diverse students with each other in the class setting is that the students learn to work with and appreciate the contributions that each can make. Plus they learn about how different career goals are set individually based upon life experiences.
Gary
