Get Your Students Hired
I've learned (or been reminded rather) that learning about my students as soon as possible can help address frustrations, fears, obstacles, and set them up for success in my classes.
I'm also considering what it means to teach class over just a case. I'm a new educator, so while I'm observing, taking notes, and trying to absorb it all before I teach my first class on my own, I can't help but feel like there is so much I'm not grasping and will miss until it's too late to help my students. I don't want MY fear of failure to get in their way either.
I would say empathize but don't sympathize. Understand the student's needs, complaints, etc. but don't waste too much time on getting absorbed in the problem too much. Also understand how the different age groups differ in learning styles and perspectives.
I believe looking at the classroom through the eyes of your students is key, especially when they are adult learners of varying ages and backgrounds. Being able to adapt activities to these different learners is something I want to continue to improve upon.
I am realizing that "coddling" these students actually does more harm than good. It also increases the instructor's stress and anxiety levels. This semester I will employ an alternative method of enforcing the rules set forth by the institution.
In this course, it was brought to my attention that students in these programs (traditional and non-traditional) have the tendency to face multiple stressors and challenges, concurrently. In order to provide the best support to students, we must listen, try understand and be able to respond appropriately in all situations. In addition, refer the student to the necessary personnel who may be able to assist further, where applicable.
At the beginning of a new class, start I can request that each student write down what motivates them, why they enrolled, and what they feel that they need to be successful.
Engaging with adult learners in conversations where they feel a sense of autonomy and can express themselves freely can promote participation in the learning process.
It is important to understand the needs of your students. Each student decided on nursing for their own reasons and its those reasons that motivate them to stay in the program. We need to be diligent to find out what the reasons are and remind them when we see them being less than successful.
This course highlights the various factors that affects a student's learning experience.
This course gave me a better understanding of student diversification and the importance of individual needs as well as the general needs of the course studies. This in turn will help teach the material of study while involving students as a whole. Teaching through real life experiences, engaging students allowing their participation and feed back will keep the interest of a larger more diverse group encouraging learning and retention.
Learning your students personal experiences an expectations set the tone for the class.
I think it's important to connect what the students are learning to their career goals and aspirations. This makes the learning much more relevant to the student and can help with their understanding of the content.
I learned from this section that not all students will learn the same. I think by adding in not only my real-life experiences but the student's real life experiences in class will help them understand some of our topics better.
Comment on Barry Jordan's post: It is always good to discuss the plans with the students as well
Adult learners come on multiple age ranges. Each adult age range posed a challenge to the instructor. Adult learners may have more complaints about their learning environment and a good instructor needs to see the world in their eyes without getting caught up in the world of complaints. Listening with empathy without loosing control of the adult learning environment.
Adult learners are highly motivated and goal-oriented: They want to know the "why" behind the learning, how it will benefit them practically, and expect efficient use of their time. Clear objectives, relevant content, and a structured learning environment are crucial.
Adults bring a wealth of life experience to the classroom: The instructor should acknowledge this and create opportunities for students to connect their existing knowledge with new concepts. Encourage sharing and relate course content to real-world situations.
Adult learners thrive in a collaborative and respectful environment: They respond well to instructors who act as facilitators and guides, fostering open communication and shared decision-making. Avoid an authoritarian approach and create a safe space for learning where students feel comfortable taking risks.
The biggest takeaway for me is not getting sucked into students' resentments. Listen, offer sympathy if needed, but remain neutral. I think this will help me a lot.
Know that students come from different situations and experiences. Be aware of different types of needs from basic to personal. What are the students' goals and aspirations and how can you help them achieve them.