Adult Educator Interview

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Adult Educator Interview AET/505: Foundations of Adult Education and Training March 21, 2013 Adult Educator Interview Teaching requires much in the way of preparation and planning prior to the beginning of each new class. However, once this work is complete, entering the classroom on day number one with only a roster of the names of students in class poses quite a daunting task. Now personalities, attitudes, and various life stories of the students are revealed and the true challenge begins: can I successfully teach the required material to every student who varies greatly in age, race, religion, and most important, learning style? Specifically, adult students who range greatly in ages present an interesting challenge for teachers. Understanding four fundamental principles of adult learners: biological, psychological, socio-cultural, and cognitive will greatly benefit adult education instructors and help them succeed in the classroom. Biological Considerations Biological differences among adult students result from changes adults experience as they age. The changes include degradation in vision and hearing, declining reaction time, and taking longer to process information. The good news is many aids exist to rectify these issues. Eyeglasses, hearing aids, medications, increased illumination and increased time for learning are some of the ways to equalize learning opportunities for older adults (Wlodkowski, 2008). Ensuring visual aids are visible from all parts of the classroom, speaking clearly and loudly, and asking questions to determine comprehension are all ways for instructors to overcome biological barriers for adult learners. Psychological Considerations Psychological differences exist for adult students because each student has a different education experience in their lives, and they bring those preconceived ideas to the adult

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