Bring it all together
My classes always have a mixture of students from all different majors in all different points in their education. The benefits of this are that they can learn from others. A first term Criminal Justice and a fifth term Criminal Justice student in the same writing class can be beneficial. The first term student may not be aware of how this course will be a benefit in that major. By discussion how students will implement and apply the information after the course, students can see how the course content will help them.
Like you, I find myself with students covering many levels of knowledge (Introduction to Computers). Designing situations where learners can learn from each other proves to be very beneficial. It takes some time to design relevant activities, but the results are always better than if I just move ahead without considering their individual expertise levels.
I have the same in Culinary, all ages and different learning levels. The hands on ability is a good way to assess the knowledge and prior experience.
Susan,
This gives you a good baseline from which you can customize your approach to the students. Good point thanks for raising it.
Gary
Dr. Gary Meers
