Step 3: Adult-Centered Implementation
Adult-Centered Teaching-Learning Process - Give Frequent and Immediate Feedback
An important part of an adult learning or skill building program is making sure that the learners receive regular feedback on how they are doing. This can be particularly important when engaged in higher level learning (such as problem solving, decision making, critical thinking, and creative thinking) or learning activities that are experience-based (where students learn by doing) (Fink, 1999). Frequent feedback can provide encouragement while also letting the students know if they are performing the way they should. The feedback should not only be frequent – either weekly or daily – but also immediate. It should be given during the same class or at the next session to have maximum effect.
Tips for Giving Feedback
During the activity, walk around the room and comment on what students are doing. They need to know that you are interested.
- Use body language to show approval (for example, smile or shake your head when someone has responded to a question).
- Encourage applause when a person or group has made a presentation.
- Write notes and comments on written work completed during the session.
- Stop students as they are leaving or walking down the hall during a break and offer feedback; even a word or two will suffice.
- Do not wait to give feedback. Give it as soon as possible, either during or after a particular event. For example, the representative from Group A has just presented the solution to a problem-solving exercise. You respond by saying, “Outstanding! That was very good! Let’s hear it for Mark and Group A.” Lead the applause. (National Highway Institute, 2000)