I found the information helpful because it really breaks down the diversity of students and all the different ways to approach the situations each and every student is going through.
I have learned that each student is different in their perceptions of education, needs, and abilities. As an instructor I need to be able to connect with each of them in order to know what kind of support they will require to help them be prepared and motivated for the course of study. Understanding the kind of support the student's need will help them to be successful and anticipate what the degree program and the professional field will expect of them.
I have learned that the students in class can help to enrich the material and using their experiences and maybe the way they understand the material may help others learn and be engaged.
Major takeaways: See the environment form the student's perspective. Be aware of students' maturity levels and adjust accordingly.
As instructors of adult learners we must be fully prepared and ready to provide for the instructional needs of people in various age ranges, cultures, socioeconomic backgrounds and/or disabilities. This is why it is essential for us to learn about and understand our students and their motivations.
The information in this module is not new to me, but it is a good refresher to promote empathizing with each student, regardless of her or his background and motivation(s) for being in a particular class.
I have learned that creating the safe place to express their experiences will help support learning. Allowing the self expression will also contribute to the instructor learning about each student more as an individual and backround.
Understanding student characteristics, personalities, ethnic backgrounds and lifestyles can better assist the instructor to attempt to meet the student's educational goals.
I appreciate the idea of seeing the class from the student's perspective. As an adult learner, I can understand how life experiences both as a younger individual and now older individual play into how an individual learns.
To better serve the student, you need to learn more about the student beyond just what is visible in the classroom.
It is important to realize the background of your students and meet them where they are and do your best to support their educational journey.
I learned from this course how valuable conversation with students is. Learning about the differences between cultures.
Discussing career goals and how to help frustrations.
It is important to understand your students’ motivations.
The course offered some excellent points in dealing with students from different cultures or countries and those who have learning disabilities. Sometimes to ensure student's understanding it may require demonstration and repeating demonstration. And those with disabilities, it is important to discuss with the student his/her specific disability and support them in those areas.
understand and support students but do not let them overtake the class
Comment on Laura Hogins's post:
I agree; we must know our students. We have international students who must overcome learning challenges and obstacles. Online learning has come a long way from when it started. Thanks to technology, we can reach out to our students more than ever with crucial information to benefit their educational progress. I know that students like to feel that someone has their best interest at heart while providing support and structure so they can be proud of their education. Students and faculty must make a connection. Faculty members must inspire students to want o move forward with their academic goals.
When working with adult learners, to understand and incorporate their life experiences, whether it is culturally, careers, etc.
Placing people of different ages together in groups to work together can help show what each age group brings to the table and help with overall confidence and moral from either older or younger student's insecurities.
This was very helpful, needing to see the students as "adult learners" more focused towards their new and up and coming careers than just a student who's has just graduated from HS, with the full support of mom and dad. Knowing more of what the student struggles and ways to help, keep them focused, and encourage.
