Adult Learners
Good information on the needs of adult learners. Nice comparison and contrast between young and older learners.
Tena,
Like the way you describe how to engage adult learners. We need to provide such options to the learners so they can stay engaged and moving toward their career goals.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
In my most recent experience, my students come from various backgrounds as well as different ages. They each are in class every evening from 6pm to 10pm. When the term began I set the tone on day one of how the class would be instructed. That way there was no confusion about the class structure. I made sure to listen to what any of them had to say concerning the class, study guides, as well as homework assignments. It is expressed every meeting with them of the importance of balancing their personal time with study time. The ultimate goal for each student is to graduate! Success comes from each individual pushing themselves to succeed in their class. As long as the motivation is there success will come. When you find that the motivation is lacking then we are to pull over and idle for a moment and regroup shift back into drive mode and head toward the finish line.
Most of my students are in their mid to late 20s and holding a job on top of family and school. For the most part their time during the week is loaded. I have basically set the tone of the class and homework so that they have the weekend for study and completion of their assignments.
Since starting this the class has relaxed quite a bit and we are having a better learning experienced. The students like this. They recognize that this schedule may not be possible all the time but appreciate when it works.
Yes - I agree. As teachers, we certainly come into contact with a wide range of learners in style, background, age, and motivation.
As such, our interaction must be versatile, encouraging, motivating, and open. Our adult students will appreciate conciseness, clarity, flexibility, and empathy. Our younger learners may in addition require reassurance and additional communicative motivation.
Gina,
Good to hear the kind words about the content.
Gary
