Application: Observing an Adult Learning Experience

Part 1: Your Observation

You have examined the elements of a quality learning experience this week. This Application Assignment will give you the opportunity to observe those elements firsthand in an actual learning experience led by an educator working with a group of adult learners.

To prepare for the observation, find the "Week 3: Observing an Adult Learning Experience" document in this week's Learning Resources or by clicking the link that follows.

Observing an Adult Learning Experience

Review the recommended observation guidelines and add any notes or reminders for yourself. After your observation, complete the following:

Summarize the observation by describing the setting, the adult learners, the learning experience, and your evaluation of the experience. Reference the resources to support your views and conclusions.

Provide 4-6 recommendations for improving the adult educator's practice and/or the learning experience, drawing on what you learned in previous weeks about working with adult learners and designing an effective, engaging learning experiences.
Be sure to change the names of the adult educator and any adult learners you mention to protect their privacy.

(Assignment length: approximately 3-4 pages)

Part 2: Compiling a Strategies for Teaching Adults Toolkit

Drawing from the resources, describe at least three strategies to add to your Toolkit for designing effective learning experiences that also promote adult learners' higher-level thinking and provide a rationale for your choices.

(Assignment length: approximately 2 pages)

Note: You need only to submit Part 1 of this Application Assignment. Title Part 2 of this assignment "

Observation Notes

As you observe, consider the effectiveness of the learning experience and the educator's practice. Use these points to guide your observation.

• How many adult learners are in the group?

• Briefly describe the group in terms of the diversity you can see.

• Briefly describe the setting.

• How does the adult educator introduce the learning experience to the adult learners? Are the learning outcomes stated? If so, summarize them. If not, can you identify them as the learning experience progresses?

• Describe the content (curriculum) and the form(s) of instruction.

• In what ways does the adult educator foster interaction, community, engagement, learning, and respect?

• Does the instruction seem appropriate? Describe what you see/hear that helps you form a conclusion.

• Are the adult learners engaged? Describe what you see/hear as evidence of engagement or non-engagement.

• Do you see evidence of assessment in this learning experience? Explain.

• How does the adult educator conclude the learning experience?

• Watch/listen for responses from adult learners that stand out to you during and after the learning experience. Describe them and explain why they are significant.

• What questions would you like to ask the adult educator about what you are observing/have observed?