MODE 8 DISCUSSION ANSWER 1
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Liberty University *
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Jul 3, 2024
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MODE 8 DISCUSSION ANSWER 1 I completely agree with your emphasis on tailoring higher education to the needs of adult learners. Helfand's focus on undergraduate students is valuable, but we can't ignore the growing population of adults seeking to return to school (Helfand, n.d.). Their unique challenges and motivations require innovative approaches. As a working adult myself, the idea of going back to school is both exciting and daunting. I yearn to expand my knowledge and pursue a new career path, but juggling work, family, and finances presents a significant hurdle. Institutions that cater to the needs of adult learners, like you mentioned, would make a world of difference.
Your point about fostering curiosity, critical thinking, and a love of learning resonates deeply. Higher education shouldn't be about rote memorization; it should be about igniting a passion for lifelong learning. I want to be challenged, to have my assumptions questioned, and to discover new ways of thinking. This is true for adult learners of all ages! I also feel that you're absolutely right that adult learners have unique needs. Flexible learning options, like evening classes and online courses, have been a game-changer for me. Additionally, support services like academic advising and career counseling would be invaluable. Knowing that the institution has my back, that they understand the challenges I face,
would make a huge difference in my success.
Ultimately, it's about creating a more inclusive and supportive learning environment for all. By acknowledging the diverse needs and backgrounds of adult learners, institutions can create a richer educational experience for everyone. This aligns perfectly with Proverbs 18:15 (NIV), which reminds us that "An intelligent heart seeks knowledge." A truly intelligent system of education caters to the needs of all learners, regardless of age or background.
I am further reminded by Ecclesiastes 4:9-10 (NIV) of the value of collaboration and lifelong learning: "Two are better than one, because they have a good return for their work. If one falls down his friend can help him up. But pity the one who falls and has no one to help him up." Just as two people working together can achieve more, a learning environment that fosters collaboration and continuous learning benefits everyone involved. Adult learners bring a wealth of experience and knowledge to the table, enriching the educational experience for both themselves and their younger peers.
Helfand's vision provides a valuable starting point, but as you rightly point out, we need to go further and ensure the future of higher education embraces the needs of all learners, especially those of us who are a little older and a lot more driven! Thank you for your thoughts and sharing your take. It was refreshing, and as an adult learner, I could completely agree with your perspective on this topic.
Discussion answer 2
Your take on David Helfand's discussion about higher education really hit close to home for me, especially since I'm currently navigating college life myself. I found myself nodding along with a lot of what he had to say. Helfand's focus on interdisciplinary learning, critical thinking, and problem-solving feels like exactly what today's students need. For me, Helfand's approach isn't just about studying specific subjects; it's about developing skills that can be applied to any situation. By
encouraging us to explore different topics and tackle real-world problems, he's helping us become more adaptable and creative qualities that'll definitely come in handy once we hit the job market.
I also appreciate how Helfand recognizes that not all students follow the same path. As someone who might end up coming back to college later in life, it's reassuring to know that educators like him understand the importance of personalized learning and flexibility. His approach also seems to tackle some of the big issues we're facing
in higher education today. By focusing on critical thinking and collaboration between
different fields, he's preparing us for the messy, interconnected world beyond the classroom, but let's be real, it’s not all smooth sailing. I can see how putting Helfand's ideas into practice would be a huge challenge. It would take a lot of support from the school and extra training for the teachers. Plus, figuring out how to
fairly assess things like critical thinking and problem-solving? Definitely easier said than done.
Reflecting on Helfand's ideas, I'm reminded of a verse that's always been close to my heart: Proverbs 2:6 (NIV) says, "For the Lord gives wisdom; from his mouth come
knowledge and understanding." It's like a reminder that while we're exploring new ways of learning, we can always lean on God for guidance and understanding. Thank you for your insight this was a good read.
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