About me
Deb Rich
Activity
Discussion Comment
Though I appreciate the experience and ability brought to the classroom and field by my more mature students, I sometimes feel that once they get out in the field they can be hesitant to take direction from younger superiors. Since my field is healthcare it can be a real problem, as some of the older students "plant their feet" when being directed by younger peers.
How do others handle this situation?
Discussion Comment
I am the externship coordinator for Medical Assisting. One of the issues coming up frequently is letting the student know that even if our curriculum teaches a competency one way, it doesn't make it the only right way. The students can become confused if the site does something differently, and will report back that "they are doing it wrong".
I usually explain to the student that unless it illegal, unethical or immoral, it's usually a good idea to accept that method as one of many ways a task can be completed.
Blog Comment
I agree, especially with the diverse population of adult learners it is important to keep all engaged. Maybe some of the students are more mature (40's) while some of the younger students were raised in the "computer and instant gratification" era. All require different teaching strategies and activities to enhance learning.
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I believe service learning it is especially relevant in these times of cutbacks. It is a "hands-on" application of skills studied with the benefit of immediate feedback from the public as well as providing a service without compensation to those needing it most.