Difficult Adult Students
Adults students present their own challenges, of course. How do we deal with the adult student who does not want to communicate their concerns directly with the instructor?
Hi Brian,
Students love it when you sympathize and empathize with them. Do not let students take advantage of your sympathy. Students still need to be held accountable.
Patricia Scales
Everyone is different, and especially with adults, figuring out how to connect with challenging students takes practice and experience. With adults, usually, I find, you must find a way to get them to trust you. Perhaps ask them about their life outside of school in some way, as it pertains to challenges to their education. Showing a little understanding of their situation can go a long way.
Hi Okasamar,
Students really need to know that we genuinely care about them, and we have their best interest at heart!
Patricia Scales
I agree you can always let your students know that you are there if they need someone to talk to .
Hi Amy,
Communication is key! Communication makes the entire educational process smooth!
Patricia Scales
I think this is a great issue to address. It is a point to address with every age student. The key, of course, is communication. Without communication, there is no progress. It is a core skill that everyone needs to acquire and practice on a daily basis. It is essential in the work environment, as well as the scholastic and personal, to be able to communicate thoughts, concerns, and feelings. So, I believe addressing up front the purpose and fundamental need for communication (in every circumstance and situation) is critical.
Hi Arlene,
As the instructor, show your students how the theory ties in with application.
Patricia Scales
Teaching adult students is always a difficult task. They need to understand reading out of the book is not the same as working on patients. By going through this course I can make changes to my syllabus so instructor & student can understand and communicate better.
Hi John,
Some students simply do not want to share their concerns, especially those concerns that are personal in nature. As instructor all you can do is let the student know that you are there for them.
Patricia Scales
