students as customers
I try to break the information regarding the class down and give them examples that they can relate to so they understand the material. Afterall they are customers paying for a service.
Hi Kevin,
Most adult learners are serious learners. They know from experience that time is of the essence, and that they do not have much time to waste.
Patricia Scales
I find that adult learners usually know why they are in their school program and they are more self directed than students right out of high school but they often have more obligations such as work and family. I also find they are more focused on how they will use what they learn out in the world once their program is completed.
Hi Terry,
Yes, this excuse is not going to work. You have to learn how to balance all aspects of life. Don't let students get away by trying to use excuses.
Patricia Scales
When students try to use their jobs as an "excuse" that hinders them from being successful in school, I have to let them know that I don't know their financial situation as far as if they HAVE to work or not and can't make that decision for them. I just try to tell them to find a balance between the two that will allow them to remain successful at both.
Hi Duane,
Students have to understand the relevancy of the course. They need to know how the course will benefit them either personally/professionally or both.
Patricia Scales
I feel that one of the most important things is to give the student (customer) is value. Did the course give them something they will use often?
Hi Victor,
That's right! Sometimes we have to shoot from every direction to ensure we are reaching all students.
Patricia Scales
Very true. My students come from working shops to get up-date information, giving up the day's income to get it. If they don't understand the material and I don't go through it again a different way till they do get it I didn't do my job. After all they've invested in being here (loss of income, travel and lodging expenses) they expect to get something they can use to make money when they get back to work.
Hi Joanne,
I concur! We as educators need to be as positive with students as possible. Our students need to hear, see, and feel our positivity.
Patricia Scales
I agree, many students have been burned by the school system and need positive feedback for their hard work.I have often told a student how bright they are, which is true, and they are motivated by this. Positive feedback is what motivates them.
Hi Paul,
I like to call it constructive feedback. When our students are receptive to constructive feedback they learn and grow from the meaningful information.
Patricia Scales
Positive and negative reinforcement should both be used or you could say constructive critizism. I dont want to be an enabler to students that always have excuses and then the students that have raw passion and do the work see that.
Hi Shirley,
I concur! We need to let our students know that we are pulling for them, but they must put forth great effort to succeed. We need to ensure our students that we will help them all we can.
Patricia Scales
I can give them all I can give them. The student needs to make themself successful. I have my expectations and objectives and measurements. I can listen and give advice, but they will make or break themselves
Hi Kathleen,
We need to give our students what they need in order for them to be successful.
Patricia Scales
