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Module 7: Personal Analysis and Philosophy

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When I am casually asked what my adult education philosophy is, I typically respond by saying, “The class is not the thing.” It is a concise, albeit a little cheeky, but it truthfully encapsulates my approach to instruction. My lodestar is what happens outside of the classroom for my students. Prior to coming to class, I ask them what issues they are currently facing in their work environment that they want assistance with. During the class, I give them ample time to practice the skills that are being discussed in a safe setting. After they leave class, I follow-up with them to see how they have applied the learning and if it has helped. My focus is constantly on making what happens in the classroom relevant, practical, and applicable to the real-life needs of my students. Absent of those elements, even the most well-designed curriculum is pointless for all involved.   One of the foundational pieces of my adult education philosophy, and why refrain from calling it my teaching philosoph

Module 6: Military Education & Religious Education & Correctional Education

  This sub-field is the one that I have the least experience with or exposure to, so I found this week's readings and content to be especially interesting. While I don't think this is a field that I will like go into, mostly because I just do not feel like I am personally well-equipped to go into it, I have incredibly high regard for those who do work in this field.  Dr. Joel Brady's interview was very interesting and humbling. When I think of the challenges I have as an adult educator they are so insignificant compared to what he has faced and the mindset it takes to do the work that he does. Even the seemingly mundane things like being able to bring paper into the classroom offer challenges when within a prison setting. Also, the Inside-Out Program is amazing and I have no doubt that setting up dialogue across such contrasting lines will absolutely change the world.