Provide clear directions on assignment sheets and for in-class assignments. Eliminate confusion by writing the day's activities on the board, explaining what will be covered and outlining key points that will later be filled in during class. Asking students to summarize in writing what they have learned and how they plan to use the material can reveal if additional directions are needed.
Offer choice whenever possible. Creating assignments in which students can select either their own topic or choose from among a few topics gives students options, a powerful motivating force. Remind students that their expertise matters and to use as examples applicable work or home experiences.
Encourage adult learners to share relevant life experiences with the class. According to Grieve, "The discussion of facts, events, examples, analogies, and anecdotes will often illicit an association for your adult students. This will encourage students to share experiences and anecdotes of their own." Sharing what they know with the class keeps the studies relevant to adults and provides real-life examples that traditional students can appreciate.
Keep lines of communication open through the use of technology. Post assignments, study guides and other relevant supplemental course material online, available for students to access whenever needed. Use of regular online communication, such as email or discussion boards offers adult learners additional ways to ask questions and obtain information, extending the class community.
Include in the syllabus, options that take unforeseen life occurrences into account and offer flexibility. Take into account that adult learners often are balancing full-time careers, families and school, time-consuming obligations that may require an occasional extension on an assignment due date.
Avoid an authoritarian teaching style, which will alienate adult learners. Teachers can instead establish that they are an additional resource available to help students meet their goals. Outlining your credentials early in the semester and coming to class prepared is essential to establishing professionalism and credibility. Reminding students of your office hours, phone number and email address increases the likelihood they will seek help when needed.