The Art of Teaching Adults (not Kids)

Teaching adults is different than teaching kids. Even though both are engaging in the process of learning, how they learn (and need to learn) are different. To ensure a successful and enjoyable experience, knowing how to teach each subgroup is important.

In education, adults have to continue learning through professional development [PD] to keep their licenses active. These learning experiences are usually given by experts in the field, leaders in the building or even colleagues who are teaching themselves. Either way, adults are teaching adults.

This post shares tips for making adult-to-adult learning successful.

Adult Learning Theory

When presenting material during PD, learning styles should still be considered to ensure information is retained. However, the nuances of teaching adults requires alternative planning methods than those used to design lessons for kids. Adult learning theory, commonly known as andragogy, is a 5 point framework that outlines how to plan learning experiences for adults. Be sure to explore adult learning theory prior to planning a PD session for adult learners.

Before the PD Session

After exploring adult learning theory, make note of what aspects you plan to include in your PD session. Draft a quick email to the attending teachers explaining the upcoming learning opportunity. In this email be sure to acknowledge their background and expertise, outlining how it will be used during the session to help peers grow their skills as well. When learners feel they bring something to the table to contribute, they show up to the learning session motivated to engage.

Before closing the email, explain the relevancy of the PD session. Adults need to see the value and need for the topic before they can be open to learning it. By sharing this information up front, adults walk into the session on the same page and ready to go.

During the PD Session

Adults do best when they can pour over a problem and collaborate on the solution. They do not enjoy being talked out the whole session. Although there will be a portion of new information shared, the presenter should use professional talk over their teacher persona to avoid the attendees feeling like they are being talked down to. After the new content is shared, do these three things:

• Make space for exploration – Sometimes we learn best by getting busy with what we are learning. Having an activity where adults can explore together brings the content alive and they naturally begin to imagine implementing it in their various roles.
• Allow for input – Open up for the floor to see what thoughts learners are beginning to have about what they just learned. This is a great time for problem solvers to bring solutions to the table. It also provides insight into how well learners understood the new material.
• Build in robust time for discussion – Some might have background to what was shared and can share personal experiences to help their colleagues imagine what the new learning will look like in their saturation. Others might want to share out about what they discovered during the exploration section of the PD session. Either way, allowing colleagues to compare their findings and share ideas is the most important part of the learning experience. Do not short cut this phase.

After the PD session

To ensure learners implement their new learning, a follow-up is required. This could be a quick survey teachers have to fill out that asks questions like:

• What was your biggest takeaway from your recent PD session?
• How did you plan to implement your new learning?
• What results did you notice after implementation?
• What additional support do you need to continue implementing your learning successfully?
• What topics of interest can you share for future learning sessions?

The results of the survey will help the PD session presenter know how to continue the follow-up process. Some teachers might need a quick 1:1 planning session where others might request an observation and feedback. Either way, personalized support ensures the new learning sticks!

Next Steps

Consider how adults learn differently and then plan an amazing learning experience for them. They will appreciate the time you took to understand what they need and want (and you’ll appreciate that the learning experience is full of high engagement!).

If you are in need of various PD options for teachers, browse the options below:

• Learning Walks – a peer observation tool
• Mentor Kit – create a mentorship system at your school
• PD on Demand– mini PD options teachers can learn on the go
• PD Choice Board – provide learning options for teachers based on their interests
• Buzzword Bingo – have fun during PD by highlighting key concepts through Bingo
• PD Huddle – a quick colleague PD huddle up to kick off the day

If you are looking for specific PD content to share with teachers, browse the options below:

• How to Successful Manage a Classroom
• Asking Higher Order Thinking Questions
• Increasing Student Ownership

If you need more resources to help you become an even stronger teacher or coach, browse these printable and digital options. Check out other helpful blog posts here. Be sure to also check out my latest book, Always A Lesson: Teacher Essentials for Classroom and Career Success.

GO BE GREAT!