What are some tips for increasing engagement with adult learners

The Dim Bulb

The Occasional Musings of an Educator

by Michael Keany

#17 - February 8, 2023

The brain is capable of performing 10 quadrillion (that’s 10 to the 16th) “calculations,” or synaptic events, per second using only about 15 watts of power. At this rate, a computer as powerful as the human brain would require 1 gigawatt of power. Maybe a dim bulb isn't really as dim as it seems.

The photo at the left is the  Livermore Centennial bulb, the world's longest burning electric bulb

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Here are some tips for increasing engagement with adult learners:

  1. Make the content relevant to their lives or work experiences.
  2. Encourage collaboration and peer-to-peer learning opportunities.
  3. Provide clear and specific learning goals and objectives.
  4. Use varied teaching methods to cater to different learning styles.
  5. Foster a supportive and inclusive learning environment.
  6. Offer immediate and meaningful feedback.
  7. Encourage self-reflection and personal goal setting.
  8. Provide opportunities for learners to apply newly acquired knowledge or skills.

References:

  • Caffarella, R. S., & Daffron, S. R. (2017). Planning programs for adult learners: A practical guide. John Wiley & Sons.
  • Merriam, S. B., Caffarella, R. S., & Baumgartner, L. M. (2007). Learning in adulthood: A comprehensive guide. John Wiley & Sons.

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