Adult Learner!
Often times we tend to generalize the adult learner as person who comes with vast amount of experience. In my opinion we can not do that as learners are different and need an individual approach. When it comes to adult education nothing can be assumed.
Terri,
It is fun to observe. I never cease to be amazed at how wide ranging the experiences of all of my students are and how they can relate their experiences to the class.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I agree! The interactions between the older and younger students is so rewarding to observe. They each have experiences to contribute to the conversation and I am learning from them all.
Mahmood,
Right you are. The more you can show relevancy and application to the adult learner the more value will be associated with the course.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
One of the most effective way of teaching a class of adult learner is to make the class experience some how relates with the real world environment.
Irum,
This is an important part of our instructional process. We need to reinforce our students and give them feedback on a regular basis as the progress through our courses.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I agree is it imperative that as an instructor you must validate their life experiences because they may have more life experience than school experience.
Randy,
Like you my experiences have been the same when comparing the older adult learner with the younger adult learner. However, as previously stated, we have to look at each student and "know" them individually. From my experience they too have life experiences that can (and need to) be used in our classes to make the connection between what they know and have done with what is being taught. Obviously, the younger adult learner will not have as many experiences but making that connection will definitely enhance their college experience.
Tasha
I think in order to make an Adult learn we will have to validate their experiences in life and support them through out the course.
Randy,
This is ongoing challenge for most instructors. I use a lot of group activities where I mix my older and younger students together to work on case studies. I find the interaction between them helps both groups to learn from each other. Some of the younger students do not get it at all and never will until they develop some self discipline and maturity. I work with them as much as I can but it comes down to themselves and their goals in relation to the effort they will put forth to be successful in my class.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I continue to see a marked difference in the attitudes of many older adult learnes vs younger adult learners. The older adult learners are, by and large, truly serious about their educational undertaking. Sadly, too many of the younger adult learners require extra attention to keep them focused, on task, and oriented towards success. Any suggestions on how best to coach the younger adult learners?
Robin,
They are very goal oriented and as a result of their many life experiences they know what they want from their courses. We need to use their life experiences in our classes and help them to see the connection between what they know or have done with what they are being taught. This enhances their satisfaction with their college experience.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Adult learners bring experience to discussions and have career goals in mind. Many adults are self directed and independent, and they want to participate in decision making.
Dwane,
The know it all adult student is a tough one to reach for sure. One strategy I use is to put my students in mixed learning groups of 3-4 students. The mixed part means some of the members will be beginning students and others will be the more life experienced adults. I assign case studies and the groups work on how to solve the problems presented in the case studies. This activity really helps the students to learn how to work together and see that everyone has something they can contribute and that they can benefit from being a part of the group. Helps to tone down the know it alls.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I have to agree. Adult learners do not always come with the best or value added experience in the subject matter. I have had cases where the adult student felt the knew everything before the class started and it was hard reaching them.
Karen,
My thoughts on this is that I agree about adult learners being very conscious about getting their work done well and on time. They have had life experiences that give them insight about the value of what they are learning and how they can be successful in the course. They can help the younger students to see the value of the course content through being assigned to learning groups and work with the younger students on problem solving.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
Charlene,
By putting yourself in the seats of your students you are able to help them see how they can be successful in your course. You are reducing their fears and frustrations and this helps them to be able to focus on the content of the course.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I think adult learners are focused,task oriented and organized. Younger students are relaxed, able to retain information and multitaskers. There is a saying that states "If you want something done just ask a busy person". I have to admit that those who work fulltime and go to class at night tend to get their work done and on time. What are your thoughts?
I agree that nothing can be assumed with anything in life. However, as far as adult learners go,I will use myself as an example. When I go to a new class or course, sometimes I feel like I should know more than I do and am self-conscious, something to keep in mind!
Anne,
You make a good point about generational differences among learners. To meet the needs of all the learners in our classes take creativity and planning in content delivery and student interactions.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
