As facilitator of adult learners you must take the "temperature" of the room and guide through times of high emotion to keep students motivated and reward at continuing their educational journey.
Returning to teaching and instructor duties after being out of the education business for a number of years gave me the opportunity to work with and around people of many different backgrounds. Recognizing the difference between passive and active learning was much easier to recognize this time around based on my exposure to today's student.
The subject matter for my class is one of many important aspects of the class.
I absolutely loved the instructor who stated, (I am paraphrasing), Loosen the reins on the horse and the horse is happier. Try not to control the horse, or student/classroom, and let them enjoy the process.
When students feel like they are a part of something special they are "all in". When the instructor has enthusiasm about the subject the delivery is better. Students thrive on how engaging the class is. Does it motivate you to complete tasks? Does the class and instructor embrace high expectations but with a realistic viewpoint.
It is important for the teacher to be enthusiastic about their teaching as well as being aware of student needs.
Be encouraging and excited about your topic.
Students can't fear coming to class or they will have trouble succeeding.
Be caring and fair can help with a student's success.
Learn your student's names and personalities in order to create a learning environment that is fun and inviting.
It is good to have a passion for the subject you are teaching the class, it can really help the energy of the room.
Learn your students and teach them the way they learn.
I have learned that you need to evaluate your students your own way and make sure they are always being put first.
The use of humor can help in the creation of an environment that helps students to feel comfortable but also can help them in their interaction with their fellow students and me as a teacher.
In this section of reading, I learned that being an enthusiasm is a crucial factor in student motivation.
Learning goes both ways, while you are teaching content to your students you will learn a great deal from them as well. No 2 students are the same nor should they be treated as such.
Creativity and integrating humor in the classroom can be conducive to a positive learning experience for students
The students need to know that the instructor cares about them and to keep the students engaged the instructor needs to be creative, also get a feel for the students as they enter the classroom by greeting them.
Engage with the students. Learn their names, and prepare the material with them in mind. Make them participants in the lecture. Be lighthearted with them and support them.
There are many ways to help students to learn which all stem from communicating with them and learning from them just as much as they learn from you. There are also many ways to improve their feelings of accomplishment which aid in retention.
