Education

There are established educational best practices for adult learners which we need to understand and apply to SC AHEC’s programs. Let's examine 5 of these best practices as outlined in Phillips' 2018 article:

Best Practice 1: Plan for differences in learners

It is important to plan for differences in: Age, Background, Work experience/health occupation, Skills, Resources (technology, internet, etc.), Motivation

Best Practice 2: Give students options for how they complete assignments

Give students options for the completion of assignments to account for differing: Abilities, Disabilities, Strengths, Preferences

Best Practice 3: Present information in multiple ways

Consider a variety of learning preferences when developing instructional strategies.

Best Practice 4: Make key points stand out

In order to help the learner focus on the key concepts, use: Headings, Bolded text, Grouped concepts, Key questions throughout, Summary at the end

Best Practice 5: Give students options for how they interact

Consider some of these options!

• Direct instruction: mastery lecture, didactic questions, demonstrations, guides for reading
• Indirect instruction: case studies, problem solving, concept mapping
• Experiential learning: field trips, simulations, games, role playing
• Independent study: essays, reports, research projects, learning centers
• Interactive instruction: debates, peer practice, discussion, interviewing, tutorial groups

Pause to Reflect

Which educational best practice do you plan to start applying to your work with SC AHEC programs?

As this lesson concludes,

it’s time to answer a couple of review questions!