Get Your Students Hired
In my current teaching position most of my students are older and fit perfectly into the model of an adult learner. However, I occasionally get students who are of traditional college age and expectations. I feel like I lose them a little because they do not approach the work or class with the same mindset that the majority of my class does. I also feel that my younger students receive less of my attention because they are often more technologically savvy and need less help. Should I feel guilty about this? I always receive positive feedback about the class from traditional aged students but I am not sure that I am reaching them in the way I want to.
Hi,
I usually have a good mix of young and old students myself. You shouldn't feel guilty about spending less time with the younger students. Every now and again though spend some one on one time with them so that they dont feel ignored. To keep their interest i usually have them help the older students with problems they might have. It give them a feeling of self worth and importance.
I also use small groups of different ages and backgrounds to share strengths and weaknesses. The students give great support to one another.
Hi Cambria,
One thing you might want to try is to form working groups where you assign the adult learners with the younger students to work on an problem or situation. This can provide the two groups to get to know each other better plus each group can contribute in their own way for mutual benefit.
Gary