Brown Bag Sharing Session for Adult Learning

Background and Audience

• The Brown Bag Sharing Session is conducted during lunchtime, lasting 20 minutes.
• The session is designed for programme designers and adjunct lecturers who serve adult learners in the social economy.

Introduction

• A survey found that 60% of participants reported low engagement in lessons, while 70% indicated a demand for greater relevance to their work.

Relevance

• Relevance is a vital contributor to learner engagement, making learners more emotionally invested and motivated.
• Strategies for making learning relevant include:
  • Getting to know learners' interests, ambitions, and beliefs.
  • Encouraging sharing of external content.
  • Tailoring lessons to match learners' interests.
  • Adapting material within the syllabus.
  • Using open-ended tasks and context-specific practice.

Engagement

• Levels of engagement include:
  • Mentally present: paying attention and focusing on the material.
  • Emotionally connected: low stress, positive mood, and purpose.
  • Proactive and curious: actively exploring learning content.
  • Socially engaged: confidence in social learning.
  • Pursuing continuous learning: fully committed to the program.
• Benefits of better engagement include:
  • Increased learning outcomes.
  • Enhanced learning motivation.
  • Positive learning environment.

Improving Learning

• Active learning leads to better learning outcomes.
• Real-world scenarios and case studies encourage active learning and student engagement.
• Scenarios promote deeper understanding, critical thinking skills, and a sense of ownership over learning.

How to Write a Scenario

• Consider the following elements when writing a scenario:
  • Learning objectives.
  • Relevant context.
  • Compelling narrative.
  • Audience and characters.
  • Realistic problem-solving.
  • Decision points and choices.
  • Multimedia elements.
  • Feedback and reflection.
  • Collaboration and support.

Technology for Reflection

• Mimio Studio is an interactive software for creating engaging and collaborative lessons.
• Key features include:
  • Interactive whiteboard.
  • Collaborative activities.
  • Real-time assessment.
• Key benefits include:
  • Enhanced engagement.
  • Collaborative learning.
  • Immediate feedback.
  • Seamless integration.