Teaching the Adult Learner | Origin: ED208
This is a general discussion forum for the following learning topic:
Adult Learning Theories --> Teaching the Adult Learner
Post what you've learned about this topic and how you intend to apply it. Feel free to post questions and comments too.
adjusting to the individual needs of the student while still creating equal opportunities for all to learn
Quality instructors ensure all students learn.
It is important to set students up for success.
For me, the most important advice from this chapter that I can implement in my work with adult learners is validating and building off their past experiences and knowledge. Confidence can be a struggle for that segment of adult learners who have been out of the classroom for a while. The more I can work from an asset model, connecting course material to their past experiences and to their future goals, the better.
"Quality instructors are activators, supporters, enhancers, and maintainers of learning." That is a true statement and something to live up to.
Good instructors help students to learn, regardless of the learning style dominance of any particular student. Instructors must be creative to accomplish this.
Allowing different learning styles for students will help students all feel engaged by targeting their learning styles.
Effective teaching practices for adult students include recognizing their prior knowledge, understanding their motivations, and adapting instruction to diverse learning styles. Providing opportunities for self-direction, using memory-building techniques, and fostering a supportive environment are key to helping adult learners succeed.
I like the concept of adults self-directing their learning. I think the challenge would be how to pull that off within the guidelines of what is required to be learned. In my situation, there are established things all students must learn or at least be exposed to. How do I allow some autonomy within those guidelines?
I was an adult learner. I try to be conscious of what an adult learner has to go through with having a family, a job and "adult responsibilities." I do not make it easier for them, just more suited to them.
In my classroom, I make sure to assess my students' prior knowledge and experiences to build on what they already know, acknowledging their unique backgrounds. I also take time to understand their motivations and personal goals, tailoring the learning experience to meet those needs. By using diverse teaching methods, incorporating memory-building techniques, and offering opportunities for self-direction, I create a supportive environment that empowers adult learners.
What I have learned is for an adult learner to be successful it is important to teach the whole of the student not the pieces. Each aspect of an adult learner is different, so it is important to support each aspect to fully help develop the learner. Additionally incorporating various learning styles could enhance motivation of the adult learner.
I learned about quality instructors are activators, supporters, and maintainers of learning
It is important to understand the life experiences and what motivates adult learners to meet their learning needs. It is also important to provide the adult students a supportive environment for learning and incorporate memory-building techniques, especially for the older adult learners.
Adapting to various learning styles with let students be able to engage in the lesson.
Comment on troy turner's post: Spot On. The educator is a very active part of the learning process for the adult learner. Identifying the learners method of learning does involve in removing those barriers that limit the learning. Every class is a unique group that must be viewed with the question what previous skills and knowledge am I working with and what must I do to enhance this groups learning.
understand your students and adapt
Engage adult learners in learning
For educators teaching adults, an essential task is facilitating learning by respecting the learners' autonomy, drawing upon their experiences, and connecting new knowledge to their existing knowledge base. This involves creating a collaborative learning environment, using practical, real-world applications to make learning relevant, and employing diverse teaching strategies that accommodate different learning styles and intelligences. Educators should also provide opportunities for self-directed learning and critical reflection, enabling adults to take ownership of their learning process and apply new skills and knowledge to their personal and professional lives.
