Abstract:

Adult learners present unique challenges for educators in modern learning environments. This diverse student population brings a vast amount of valuable professional and life experience to the teaching-learning process. Experiential learning is a defining component of curricula in professional programs, which inherently presents additional challenges to instructors and students. Differentiated instruction to support the needs of diverse learners at both the undergraduate and graduate levels in professional programs is instrumental for program success. Effective strategies implemented to support nursing students and teacher candidates pursuing licensure and certification at a private liberal arts college in NYC will be shared. Pedagogical tools implemented to support and empower students to differentiate their own study strategies to meet their individual learning needs will be highlighted. Practical application techniques described for differentiated instruction with adult learners in nursing and teacher education are applicable to other fields.