Kim Pritchard

It's a tough one. Is your class very interactive? Hands-on? I know the WIIFM only goes so far when nature says "hey, need to get some rest here!!!" Most of the courses in our programs are pretty interactive which help. Also, we have had quite a bit of success with classes who form a quick bond and help one another through. I've found some of the students are very creative and competitive. They set the bar high and help keep one another motivated etc, even for such inexpensive things like having a pizza party if all the class makes it… >>>

In the adult learning environment, nodding off in class happens occasionally. Before rushing to the teaching style as the culprit, we've found talking to the student about what s/he believes is causing the problem is very helpful. Much of the time we find it's not so much the need to use a different visual aid, but more so, the challenges outside of school that can cause sleep deprivation. Financial difficulties, arguing with spouse/children, caring for a sick child or aging parent, or simply having to work while attending school are common reasons for the inability to remain awake in a… >>>

Of all of the content of this segment, the information on blind spots is probably most helpful for me and some of my coworkers/faculty. Both educators and staff can get caught up in not being able to see some of our most challenging (and challenged) students as being able to "make it through" the program. This to me, is where diversity in our staff's experiences and personalities can be a great resource. It is so obvious, sometimes we forget to "bounce" things off one another to obtain a perspective we could not otherwise have imagined, let alone seen for ourselves.… >>>