How to Teach an Adult

Teaching an adult brings on a whole new set of challenges than what you would normally face when teaching children. The following guidelines will help you to teach adults in a way that keeps them focused, challenged and excited to come back for more.

Instructions

Difficulty: Moderate

1. Create an encouraging, relaxed learning environment. Adults may have more reservations and fears about taking a course than would a child, so it is important that you create an atmosphere where they feel comfortable to speak up and make mistakes in class.
2. Be organized and demonstrate your expertise in the subject matter. An adult doesn't want to take a class that seems to be a waste of time, so make sure to come fully prepared to each lesson and to start and end the class on time.
3. Inform your students of the overall course goals as well as the goals for each lesson so that your students are always clear on what they will be learning. Also ask the students what their individual goals are, and make an effort to address these desires throughout the course.
4. Provide practical and useful information in class. Showing adults how to apply what they've learned in class to real life situations will keep their interest.
5. Pay attention to your students' individual needs and address them in a confident and encouraging manner. For example, if a student is having difficulties in your class, talk to him quietly outside of class to find out what you can do to help him instead of addressing the issue in front of the other students.
6. Show respect for your adult students by recognizing that they all have diverse experiences and opinions to bring to the table. Have frequent classroom discussions to create an environment where they can make valuable contributions and learn from each other.
7. Set high expectations for your adult students by letting them know that they must take personal responsibility for their performance in and outside of class.

Tips & Warnings

• Avoid lecturing for long periods without holding a group discussion or having them complete a practice exercise. They'll be more engaged if they can start discussing and using the information you're teaching them.

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