The Adult Learner and the Vocational Nursing program
Who is an Adult Learner? Wide age range Either right out of high school or may have a wide variety of educational and world experiences
Where do you fit? Net Generation/Millennials (1982-1991) Returning Adult Learner Gen Xers (1965-1982) Baby Boomers (1946-1964) Matures (pre-1946) Recycled Learners
Formal vs. Informal Education Formal Classroom Structured Set curriculum Informal Hands on, learn as you go Life experiences Reading
Plan for Success Mature learners Self-directed Motivated Set reasonable goals Traditional learners Comfortable with school routine Know how to use technology to their advantage
Hidden Dangers Fear of failure Attitude Negative self-talk Unrealistic expectations Social activities/responsibilities Employment
Your Rights as a Learner I. Freedom of speech Free speech is granted as long as you don t dominate the floor, physically harm, or rudely interrupt others. You also have the right to be heard. II. The right to bare arms Raising bare arms is appropriate for all who bathe regularly, when ready with a question or contribution. III. No imposition of unreasonable quarters This includes the right to be quartered in a well-heated, air-conditioned, and/or ventilated room. Further, none shall be forced to remain in classroom quarters during fire or bathroom emergencies. IV. No unreasonable searches and seizures While facilitators may search for a right answer, learners have the right to make mistakes. If one is unable to answer a question correctly, the instructor will not cause embarrassment. V. Exemption from self-incrimination If you didn t do the assignment and can get away with it, good for you. But you may pay the price later! VI. The right to a speedy trial You have the right to try new things and put learning to use as quickly as possible either in classroom simulations or real-life situations. VII. The right to a jury of peers You are entitled to a classroom of peers who will not judge or jeer, but make you feel safe and supported when faced with new challenges. VIII. No cruel and unusual punishment Learners shall not be subjected to interminable lectures, excessive homework, nor ridicule and scorn by the instructor or fellow students. Poor attempts at humor, deemed painful to some, shall be exempt. IX. Equal treatment of all All should be treated respectfully regardless of age, hobbies, hair style or abundance, gender, skin type, or religion. X. The right to have fun Learners have the right to laugh, play, and challenge anyone who pollutes the environment with negative energy. XI. The right to an organized curriculum You have the right to know what the assignments are ahead of time and to know what will be covered on the next test
The Role of the Nursing Instructor To stretch each student out of his comfort zone To provide an effective learning environment To be available to help you understand and solve problems that you cannot understand or solve on your own. To evaluate learning.
Your Obligations as a Learner Actively participate in the learning process Take personal responsibility for learning and for use of your time Become self-directed and curious Use the resources you have been given Look it up Come to class prepared to discuss materials and to ask questions about it Read all assignments before the lecture Read everything again before taking the test Study, study, study
More Obligations Know the rules and live by them Avoid gossip and back-biting. Seek out learning experiences Seek out resources beyond what is assigned Assume responsibility for your own behavior Be on time for class and be present Participate in discussions Ask for help when you need it Help one another Know what your grades are
Evaluation Tests Case studies Clinical Evaluations