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Summary of Learner Needs

This adult evening class consists of learners between 25 and 55 years old, who come from various cultural backgrounds and levels of education. There are those who have finished high school, others who have gone to some college, while the rest balance work and family. The learners enjoy experiential and practical learning modes, including visualizations, groupings, and case studies. They usually experience obstacles such as limited time available, technology access problems, fear of going back to school, and language difficulties. In order to accommodate these students, instructional methods need to consist of explicit instructions, pacing flexibility, active engagement, individualized feedback, and access to supplements.

Demographic Information:

Ages range from mid-20s to mid-50s, representing working adults balancing jobs and family responsibilities.

Ethnically diverse, including individuals from various cultural and language backgrounds.

Level of education ranges: some have a high school degree only, others have attended some college but not earned degrees.

Learning Styles:

Experiential and practical learning are favored by many adults, directly applying knowledge to actual circumstances.

Visual aids, hands-on activities, and discussion opportunities assist learners with remembering and comprehending information.

A preference for collaborative learning settings is prevalent, where exchange among peers enhances understanding.

Flexibility in pacing and formats (in-person, digital resources) supports varied schedules and learning speeds.

Barriers to Learning:

Time constraints due to employment and family obligations limit study time and attendance flexibility.

Limited access to or familiarity with technology can hinder engagement with digital tools and assignments.

Some learners experience anxiety or lack confidence due to gaps in prior education or returning to formal learning after years.

Language proficiency differences affect comprehension and participation for non-native English speakers.

Learner Needs:

Supportive, non-judgmental classroom climate that builds self-confidence and encourages risk-taking in learning.

Clear instructions and scaffolded activities that gradually build complexity to avoid overwhelming learners.

Regular feedback and goal-setting opportunities to maintain motivation and track progress.

Use of culturally responsive materials and inclusive language to affirm learners' identities and experiences.

Options for asynchronous learning or supplemental resources to accommodate varied schedules and learning speeds.

Summary:
Understanding these multifaceted needs allows for designing learner-centered experiences that are inclusive, flexible, and relevant. Addressing barriers proactively and emphasizing collaboration and support will improve engagement and outcomes for this diverse adult group.

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Icebreaker Activity: “Two Truths and a Lie”

Purpose: This fun and low-pressure activity helps students become more comfortable with one another, encouraging conversation and helping to reduce anxiety.
Adult Learning Connection: Supports Maslow’s need for belonging and Knowles’ principle of self-concept by encouraging learners to share personal experiences in a non-threatening environment.
How to Use: Ask each student to share three statements about themselves—two true and one false. The class then guesses which one is the lie.
Link: https://neatro.io/blog/two-truths-and-a-lie-icebreaker/

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Scenario-Based Problem Solving

Purpose: Presents real-world challenges relevant to course content. Students work in small groups to discuss how they would respond or solve the issue.
Adult Learning Connection: Aligns with Knowles’ emphasis on problem-centered learning and Mezirow’s transformative learning theory, which supports critical thinking and perspective-shifting.
How to Use: Present a realistic scenario and ask students to brainstorm possible solutions. This works well with case studies or job-related dilemmas.
Link: https://www.journalofaccountancy.com/newsletters/academic-update/best-way-teach-adults-scenario-based-learning/

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Reflective Journaling

Purpose: Encourages learners to make connections between class content and their lived experiences. Helps identify prior knowledge, new insights, and personal growth.
Adult Learning Connection: Supports self-directed learning and critical reflection—cornerstones of adult learning theory. This also supports affective domain development in Bloom’s Taxonomy.
How to Use: Ask students to write brief reflections at the end of each class responding to prompts like “What did I learn today that challenged my thinking?” or “How can I apply this to my work or life?”
Link: https://www.edutopia.org/article/teaching-empathy-through-journaling/

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Digital Engagement Wall – Padlet Brainstorming

urpose: Use Padlet to create a shared digital “wall” where students post ideas, questions, or goals throughout the course.
Adult Learning Connection: Builds community, encourages collaboration, and provides space for ongoing reflection. Helps learners with varied learning styles (visual, verbal, social) feel included.
How to Use: Create a Padlet board where each student adds a note about what they hope to learn or contribute to the course. Revisit the board throughout the term to reflect on growth.
Link: https://www.proliteracy.org/wp-content/uploads/2025/02/7.1.11-Tech-Column.pdf

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Reflection: The Role of Belonging in Adult Learning

Belonging is a foundational need in adult learning environments. When learners feel emotionally and socially connected to the classroom, their engagement, motivation, and ability to retain information significantly improve. According to Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs, belonging is essential before learners can reach higher-order thinking or self-actualization. A classroom that fosters inclusion and respect encourages learners to take risks, collaborate, and persist through challenges.

Jack Mezirow’s Transformative Learning Theory also highlights the importance of belonging by emphasizing the value of dialogue, critical reflection, and support in transforming perspectives. Adults need spaces where they feel safe to question assumptions and engage in meaningful discourse.

In my course design, I intentionally include activities like “Two Truths and a Lie,” scenario-based discussions, and journaling, all meant to validate learner voices, build trust, and support emotional safety. Additionally, diverse modes of participation (speaking, writing, group work) are integrated to respect varied preferences and promote equity.

Examples of tools and resources that support belonging:

Creating a Sense of Belonging in the Classroom
Source: Edutopia
https://www.edutopia.org/article/creating-sense-belonging-classroom

💬 Summary: Offers practical tips on creating emotional and social safety in classrooms. Focuses on listening, student identity, and validation.

Adult Learning and the Importance of Belonging
Source: American Psychological Association (APA)
https://www.apa.org/education-career/teaching-learning/adult-learners-belonging

💬 Summary: Discusses how belonging impacts adult learners and provides strategies for educators to improve connectedness in educational environments.

Maslow’s Hierarchy of Needs (interactive article)
Source: Simply Psychology
https://www.simplypsychology.org/maslow.html

💬 Summary: A breakdown of Maslow's theory with updated visual aids to help understand the role of belonging in adult motivation.

Transformative Learning Theory Explained
Source: InstructionalDesign.org
https://www.instructionaldesign.org/theories/transformative-learning/

💬 Summary: Explains Mezirow’s theory in clear, accessible language and shows how critical reflection fosters deep learning and personal growth.

In conclusion, a strong sense of belonging helps adult learners overcome barriers such as fear, isolation, or lack of confidence. By weaving belonging into classroom routines and learning designs, we support not just academic success but holistic learner development.