Learning needs of Adults
Most of the students in our college are there to learn a new skill so they will be qualified to enter more than one field. Some have lost their jobs due to downsizing or factories closing, now they are fearful but need to learn new skills. The adults want the needed supplies to be ready and the instructor to present the course content so that most learning styles will be addressed. Adults want the lab experience to be similar to the work setting or pretend like when they are doing lab that they are on the job.They want class to start on time and end on time. Every now and then one adult will have a problem, they want you to listen, maybe make suggestions but move on and continue to teach the course content.
Hi Mary Jane,
Well said. This is what adults learners are bringing to the classroom and the outcomes they desire. We need to keep this in mind as we plan our instruction.
Gary
I find that adult non-traditional learners are often the best and most intrinsically motivated students, once their initial fears of returning to an educational setting are overcome.
On the first day of class I request an information card to be completed by each student regarding their background, course of study, contact information, and any other information they feel they need to share with me. I try to bring in the life exeperiences of my students by allowing them to discuss their experiences as appropriate. Creating study groups of mixed ages also benefits all involced. The younger students learn social skills from the older, and the older students build a sense of self-worth and purpose.
I use verbal encouragement whenever possible to build self-confidence. Students know from day one what is required and expected of them to be successful in the class.
