Adult student mentor
Something I noted about my adult students in class they like to mentor the younger students, the experience that they bring helps the younger student to understand some complex concepts, and I found the younger students will respond to the older students Vs me. At the same time you have to monitor that the older students do not try to take your place, from time to time.
John,
I totally agree with the older students mentoring the younger ones in the classroom/lab. It also keeps less drama in the classroom. Also, it can be used in reversed too. Younger helping the older students especially with the understanding in certain subjects. Like everyone says, just making sure everyone keeps their focus and you keep control of the classroom setting.
I agree with Mr. Quiles in that the older/ more experienced students help the younger/ less experienced students. The reason they are able to do this, is that they pay closer attention in class and can apply it to the lab. The experience the older students brings to class and lab is focus on the task and the their final goal.
That is a great idea John if the older Student is interested in being a mentor which most are. I have observed that the Students or Students that might have been taken under the wing of a qualified mentor tend to settle down, become a little more mature and focus in on the material being studied.
John, I to have noticed how the adult student will mentor the youger students and can also be the leaders in the lab,but you have to make sure that they are getting the correct information.
Hi John,
Good point about how you can use the knowledge that older students bring to the classroom. Everyone benefits from their contributions. As you say though you have to make sure you retain control of the class and the direction it goes.
Gary
