Teaching Adults

A highly practical guide for new instructors teaching in any setting Regardless of the context, teaching is a tall task—and for those teaching adults, unique challenges await. Teaching Adults: A Practical Guide for New Teachers is chock-full of ideas that can be read quickly and implemented immediately in formal and informal settings, in classrooms and workplaces; in short, wherever adults are learning. Written with straightforward language that eschews jargon, yet grounded in theory, research, and practice in adult education, the book will benefit readers who have not previously been exposed to these ideas as well as more experienced teachers who seek new ways to reach adult learners. The book will serve as a resource to revisit from time to time as readers face new challenges and questions in teaching adults. Readers will delve into to a variety of topics, including: A general teaching framework, including the author's four keys to effective teaching An in-depth exploration of the primary components of effective teaching An examination of the unique challenges involved with teaching adults, including how to best create a positive learning environment, overcoming resistance to learning, motivation techniques, and dealing with difficult or disruptive learners The book elucidates the techniques required to connect with adult learners and provide instruction that is specifically tailored to the unique learning needs of these students.

Preface vii About the Author xi Part One: Getting Started 1 1. So, You’re Teaching Adults? 3 2. What is Effective Teaching? 9 Part Two: Four Keys to Effective Teaching 21 3. So, What are You Teaching About? 23 4. A Dozen Things You Need to Know About Adult Learners 31 5. Building Blocks of Adult Learning 43 6. Planning Instruction 59 7. Teaching Techniques 69 8. Knowing Yourself: Understanding the Teacher Within 85 Part Three: Unlocking Doors to Effective Teaching 97 9. Creating a Positive Learning Environment 99 10. Overcoming Resistance to Learning 113 11. Motivation 121 12. Dealing with Dilemmas and Challenges 133 Epilogue: So, Now You’re Ready: Go and Teach Adults 145 References 149 Index 153