My Experience with Adult Learners
Surprisingly, I have had only a few adult learners in my classes over the years. Most of my students are between the ages of 18 – 25. I can also recall that each of those adult learners was a challenge to teach in some way. One in particular was indeed full of self-doubt and was typically despondent every time he entered the class. I always made an attempt to engage him in one-on-one conversation as he always arrived early to class. As much as I tried I could not find a “kink in the armorâ€.
Then this particular design class had a group project. I intentionally paired him up with the brightest, most talented student in the class. Amazingly, this troubled adult learner came out of his shell and presented skills to his group that I had no idea he had. It turns out all he needed was team interaction. His work experience was anchored in that so he needed that dynamic to function comfortably in the classroom. I think that experience then gave him the confidence he needed to do well in individual work. He needed that validation by his younger peers, but he also needed the proper venue to make that happen.
Edgar,
I think you will really like the results you get from creating such pairing.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I also have both, adult and young learners. i will definetly try pairing them up for projects.. seems like a good idea..
William,
I have found this as well. This type of pairing is good for both groups since the can learn about their different generations plus gain respect for each other.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
i also work in career education field and have found pairing adult learners and 18-20 year olds has benefits for both.
Rita,
My experience as well. Takes difference approaches to get them engaged for sure.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I agree with what was said about adult learners--the 18-25 generation and the older generation. I work in a career school and the two generations are completely different.
Yes, Thank you Craig. This success story gives me even more motivation to try different methods of instructing more often. If I can understand one student better, as you did, I will establish a stronger foundation!
Craig,
Thank you for sharing this example of how an adult learner can be integrated into the learning process. It was through trial and error you were able to remove the barrier that was stopping him from course success. The venue of group work got him engaged and gave him confidence. I commend you for your effort and that you never gave up in trying to help him be successful.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
