Source: Globe, Clker, http://bit.ly/1CVSonk; Thinking Person, Clker, http://bit.ly/1EmDSQV; Blackboard, Pixabay, http://bit.ly/1Fzl7eU; Blackboard, Pixabay, http://bit.ly/1HOs4g8; Us, Pixabay, http://bit.ly/1S7c9NK; Hat, Pixabay, http://bit.ly/1JDvGE7; Knowledge, Pixabay, http://bit.ly/1TdaPKI
Hello there and congratulations. You've just completed the series of lessons that are all about popular adult learning theories. We covered a great deal of terms and strategies, and we made our way through many learning objectives. Let's recap.
Adult learning is not a new idea. But we continue to gain a better understanding of it. In this unit, we shared any examples of how adult learning theories manifest themselves in classrooms, whether we are the teacher or the student. So here we go. Let's take a look back at some of the most important learning objectives that we covered.
A topic we came back to on multiple occasions in this unit was Malcolm Knowles' six principles of adult learning, and they're listed here. We learned that as we gain experiences, we are able to use those experiences to learn even more. Some skills that we've gained are transferable. For example, you may have spent some time working in public relations. Those experiences will help you as a teacher when you're communicating with parents.
Another one of his principles deals with purpose. As adults, we can go into a learning experience and recognize why it is important. If I want to be a better science teacher, I will take a class or do some research to improve what I do.
Another principle is motivation. We learned that as we mature, internal motivation is far more effective than external motivation. As adults, it matters to us that we do our best. And often, the feeling we get from knowing that we did is enough to continue to learn.
With the knowledge of the six principles of adult learning in your pocket, you are now much better equipped to participate in or even create professional learning experiences for your peers. You now know why it's so important to recognize what adults bring with them to any learning experience and the strategies that can help tap into their previous experiences. Conversely, you will now be able to quickly recognize that when these principles are ignored, participants will tune out the learning or even will sabotage it for everyone else.
You learned that topics that you seek out as an adult should be relevant and meaningful, because no one wants to waste time. Furthermore, you will now have the ability to reflect on previous professional learning and identify why some worked and why some failed to meet your expectations.
It is my sincerest hope that you begin to participate in more collaborative, site-based professional development. This means tapping into the wealth of knowledge that exists in your own backyard, rather than looking elsewhere. This is a message that needs to be delivered to those responsible for creating and organizing such opportunities.
It's also my hope that after learning about adult learning, you will be inspired to be an active member of a PLC. These groups are powerful forces in our schools that can take control over what, how, and when people want to learn. From writing curriculums to organizing learning opportunities, none of it is possible without collaboration.
Another important learning objective that we covered was the impact that the theory has on us, the adult learner. We were reminded that as teachers we are always wearing two hats, that of facilitator of learning and also that of receiver of learning. Modeling the behavior you expect from your staff and colleagues will go a long way in the development of your ability to lead and inspire others.
You learned about the power of observing and modeling in the PLC, and the effect it has on the staff and students. If you're going to take two words away from these lessons, they would be "continuous improvement." Taking the time to think about and analyze how adults learn will have a profound impact on you beyond your professional life. This is the way to lifelong learning. I hope you're as excited as I am to travel it.
So it's time to go ahead and summarize this lesson. We quickly reviewed Malcolm Knowles' six principles of adult learning and then connected them to professional learning experiences. Then we touched upon the benefits of collaboration when it comes to professional development. Finally, we reviewed the impact all this has a on you, your practice, and your school.
And here's the final food for thought. If you haven't done so already, go back and take advantage of all the additional resources that come with each video. So once again, congratulations. Well done. I'm so excited for you and all your efforts. Until we meet again, have a great day.
(00:00-00:33) Intro
(00:34-01:28) Six Principles
(01:29-02:15) Professional Learning
(02:16-02:57) Collaboration
(02:58-03:46) Impact
(03:47-04:25) Summary/Food For Thought