How to Teach a Seniors Workshop

Seniors often take workshops to learn new technology or update skills. Teaching older adults is different than teaching other students. As a teacher, you need to be aware of physical and mental challenges faced by this age group. Follow these steps to teach a workshop for seniors successfully.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderately Easy

Things You’ll Need:

• Handouts with large print
• Microphone

1. Speak clearly and loudly while facing your students. Some may be hearing impaired. Look toward them and speak clearly so that they can hear you.
2. Use clear vocabulary or layman's terms that anyone can understand. Students may not be aware of new computer jargon or current technological terms. Also, watch for industry specific words that may confuse your learners.
3. Pay attention to special needs that your learners may have such as hearing problems, shaking hands or vision impairment. Ask students if they can hear and see you clearly.
4. Plan ahead. Hand out notes in large print so that visually impaired students can follow along. Speak loudly or use a microphone to accommodate hearing impaired students.
5. Explain everything in detail. Older students may have shorter memories. Many have been out of school for a long time and may need extra time to adjust to classroom learning.
6. Teach to all learning styles. Hand out notes and use a board or overhead for visual learners. Speak clearly and explain all concepts for auditory learners. Ask questions and provide group work for kinesthetic or hands on learners.
7. Keep it simple. Your students are not experts, so don't use complicated computer language that they won't understand.

Tips & Warnings

• Be aware of the physical limitations of older learners.
• Repeat information if needed.

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