Adult validation
I have found that a few early encouragements for the older students really go a long way with ego boosting. The earlier it happens the better! Nip the feelings of inadequacy in the bud.
Maribeth,
Good way to appreciate the life experiences and backgrounds of all your students. This way you are showing each student how he or she can fit into the course comfortably and have success if they are willing to put forth the effort.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
I acknowledge and applaud all of my students efforts at the beginning my course. I feel all students (people) need validation. The young students may have gotten through high school or GED but did not apply themselves (or know how to) and the older student have courage and a wealth of applicable experience to bring to their new field and course study.
I have found the same thing Jeremy. I tend to give alot of encouragement to all of my students, but the older students sometimes need a littel more encourage ment thatn others to initially build their self confidence.
Jeremy,
Good point and something we instructors need to remember. Older students often times come into class feeling like they are not going to be able to be successful. If we can give them support and encouragement early on in the course they will quickly see that they in fact can be successful and their confidence grows from there.
Gary
Gary Meers, Ed.D.
