When I combine studens of varying age groups, I find that they almost become yin-yang to each other. They fill in each others blanks. And if they are wise and paying attention they learn the bigger truth-- that they all have things to bring to the table, and these things should all be valued. Hopefully this learned truth will extend beyond the learning environment to the workplace.
Many adult learners may feel that they know more than their current instructors! This is understandable given the life experiences of many students. I always try to engage my class in discussions, debates, etc. This typically brings out the best in those who are shy or withdrawn and have difficulty participating. It never fails that I also learn from my students - it's a given and take situation! Even instructors can be lifelong learners and benefit from a healthy exchange of ideas in a classroom setting.
A good instructor can tailor activities and assignments to challenge specific learners, as well as encourage different learners to interact.
I agree with the concept. I would like to know if anyone has any specific activities, assessments or games that helps an instructor know what kind of learner his students are?
Kim,
We certainly cannot create a "one class fits all" curriculum and I think the points you make are important.
Kurt
Hi Salma,
Good point about mixing students together to help them in learning how to work with other individuals. The use of the groups will greatly encourage this.
Gary
Hi Kim,
With your personal experiences of working with your own children in the area of learning disabilities I know you are able to focus on the learning needs of your students with much accuracy. I have worked with students with learning disabilities for many years and have found that with the right kind of accommodations they have great success in class. The key is to find what those accommodations are and how they need to be provided.
Gary
Our college is located in a border city.
We are 95% Hispanic, we do have young and
older students who have been laid off from
factory jobs here in the borderland. They are
older and mature and in fear of failing.
They feel they must compete with the younger
more technologically inclined student. I feel
the intructors would be wise to use group
projects that help both the younger and older
student learn. A variety of presentations
always keeps interest high as well as motivates
learning the subject matter.
Hi Anthony,
Right you are. By knowing your students will you are able to more accurately target the instruction they need. This will keep them engaged and focused at a much higher level leading to higher retention.
Gary
Instructors are better able to plan a variety of learning activities, adjust requirements and expectations, and better address issues of motivation when they take the time to understand the students who occupy their classes.
Two of my three children have learning disabilities, and being involved in their Individual Educational Plans has made me much more aware of the diverse needs of students in my own classrooms. Our campus has also worked with blind and hearing impaired students, which has caused us to be more open and flexible in our approach to unique student situations.
If you understand what kind of person you are dealing with and what kind of learner that they are you can taylor your instruction to reach as many people as possible therefore cutting down on the need for a lot of extra tutoring needed. Also when tutoring you are better able to reach that student on the level that they are comfortable with
Martin,
There is no doubt that this understanding helps us with our instructional planning.
Kurt
Sara,
We should never underestimate the value that students can bring into the classroom and share with their classmates. You understand this concept well.
Kurt
i like to give pre-course test and break the class down in groups and monitor the class. it helps me identify diffrent styles of learning.
By understanding the learner characteristics, I can place myself in their shoes. I can now plan my instructional strategy which I feel best suits their learning needs or style.
Understanding learner characteristics means that one can plan instruction that will be more meaningful and useful to students. One can accommodate learning disabilities, incorporate life experiences, and not just talk at their students but have them interact with each other. This allows for a class that not only provides academics but also provides an opportunity for students to grow as they work together within the context of the subject area classroom.
watching and asking questions and greeting the students door
Peter,
This is a good idea. There are also other ways to provide some diversity in the groups to support good learning opportunities. You can mix experienced with less experienced, different areas of the country, working and non-working, etc. I always have my students post a bio in the first couple of days of class and I use this information to help do the kinds of grouping I'm referring to.
Kurt
when i have a mixed age group i will always put an older students with the younger students it has worked very good and they seem to learn from each other
Hi Kurt,
Thank you for sharing how you approach working with students online. By tailoring your delivery to their needs you are customizing their education. This will keep them engaged and focused on the out comes which in term helps them to create a future for themselves.
Gary
