Digital Toolbox for Teaching Adult Learners by Camille Cooper

Activity 1: Learning Preferences

ccooper1241 — 2025-05-24 03:27:57 UTC

Description: Students will choose one activity to do from the link to find their learning preference.

Link: https://www.exploring.org/activity/learning-styles/

Activity 3: Scavenger Hunt

ccooper1241 — 2025-05-26 02:40:59 UTC

Description: Students will be dealt various sheets of prompts where they must find all things listed to receive a prize (e.g. extra credit, free time, or free pass).

Link: https://teambuilding.com/blog/networking-event-ideas

Activity 2: Two Truths & One Learning Lie

ccooper1241 — 2025-05-26 02:41:06 UTC

Description: Each student shares two truths and one lie that relates to their learning or career background. Peers guess the false one.

Link: https://teambuilding.com/blog/networking-event-ideas

Activity 4: Goal Mapping "Now, Next, & Later"

ccooper1241 — 2025-05-26 19:50:52 UTC

Description: Students will create a 3-part visual map: Now- current skillset, next- what I’m working toward, and later my long-term goals.

Link: https://productschool.com/blog/product-strategy/now-next-later-roadmap

Why Belonging Matters for Adult Learners

ccooper1241 — 2025-05-28 01:27:21 UTC

For adult learners, belonging is a fundamental need. Students should feel a sense of connection in order to thrive in the classroom. According to Groh (2024) "Transformative learning is the expansion of consciousness through which an individual can question themselves about their own feelings, beliefs, assumptions, and perspective on their purpose" (2024). The activities mentioned can support diverse identities and life experiences. Belonging can create moments of empathy, acceptance, and a shared purpose. This creates a community where each student feels valued, seen, and motivated to continuing strong.

References

ccooper1241 — 2025-05-28 03:18:07 UTC

Groh, K. (2024, July 31). Transformative learning. Valamis.

Markkula Center for Applied Ethics. (2024, May 9). Sense of belonging podcast: Episode 1: What is a sense of belonging on a university landscape? [Video]. YouTube.

Richard, A. (2022, November). Sense of belonging: Students' challenges should be effortless joys [Video]. TED Talks.

Souther, S. (2025, March 26). The Power of Belonging: Enhancing student success through inclusive teaching strategies. scholarlyteacher.

Podcast

ccooper1241 — 2025-05-28 05:32:07 UTC

In this podcast, Schrohe & Wysinger (2024) answer some common questions about what it means to belong. In this episode, they describe their individual experiences at their university, both positive and negatives experiences that have guided them to discovering the idea of belonging. Schrohe & Wysinger have found various meanings of belonging, so they created this podcast to help other students find strategies to feel like they belong. It is a good watch, click this link below to watch it and jot down any notes.

Link: https://www.youtube.com/watch?v=ugn14QXa1m8&t=82s

Ted x Talk: Angela Richard

ccooper1241 — 2025-05-28 05:53:15 UTC

In this Ted Talk, Angela Richard talks about the importance of belonging in a place that's not fit for everyone. She talks about the many challenges that adult learners face, but also the ways that learners can find their sense of belonging. This was a wonderful Ted Talk, be sure to watch it and write down notes that you find interesting.

Link: https://www.ted.com/talks/angela_richard_sense_of_belonging_students_challenges_should_be_effortless_joys

Blog

ccooper1241 — 2025-05-28 16:22:03 UTC

In this blog post, Souther (2025) explains that a sense of belonging is the foundation to student success. Throughout the blog there are many strategies that can be implemented that foster a sense of connection and engagement. However, this blog is interesting because it is from an instructors viewpoint. Be sure to check it out and take down any notes you connect to.

Link: https://www.scholarlyteacher.com/post/the-power-of-belonging-enhancing-student-success-through-inclusive-teaching-strategies

Classroom Profile

ccooper1241 — 2025-05-29 01:37:30 UTC

Class Information

Demographics

Age Range: 24–58 years old
Gender: 18 women, 12 men
Cultural/Ethnic Diversity:
40% White/Caucasian
30% Hispanic/Latinx
20% Black/African American
10% Asian/Pacific Islander

Languages Spoken

80% English
15% Spanish
5% Mandarin

Educational Background

10% High school diploma
40% Some college or Associate Degree
40% Bachelor’s Degree
10% Graduate or Professional Degree

Professional Background

40% Healthcare
20% Education
15% Business
10% Skilled Trades
10% IT/Technology
5% Government

Learning Preferences

45% Visual
35% Hands-On
20% Reading/Writing

Tech Comfort

30% Highly comfortable
40% Moderately comfortable
30% Limited tech skills

Learning Challenges

25% Time constraints
20% Test/Assessment anxiety
15% Learning disabilities
10% Technology literacy gaps
10% Language barriers
5% Neurodiverse

Learning Goals and Career Goals

Learning Goals

50% Professional development
30% Career transition
20% Personal enrichment

Career Goals

40% Career advancement
30% Career change
20% Personal growth

Key for Instruction- Teacher Thoughts

ccooper1241 — 2025-05-29 03:10:07 UTC

Key Implications for Instruction

Hands-on activities and visuals are important!
Pay attention to those who are not familiar with technology.
Use collaborative and inclusive activities to bring students together.
Connect with students with real-world scenarios.