If you still have to meet classes and do what you can to help your students to master the subject matter. Check some things you might try over the next few weeks:
1. Get a discussion going exploring what is different about each student that enables them to give academic learning one more try. It’s like a formal class discussion or an informal one with a few students during break time. You can be impressed by the answers. Many adult students have thought about why they approach formal education differently now than when they were teenagers. Share your knowledge about human development and “readiness” for abstract material.
2. Initiate a discussion about what techniques students use to learn the material.
It’s like a part of a “how-to-study” or test-preparation session. Suggest the idea of learning styles and preferred modes (auditory, visual, hands-on, etc.) When you teach, “See it, say it, and write it,” which students find different parts of that drill the most useful? Search for the various methods for reviewing information for a test, and try to get each student to figure out what combination works best.
3. Learn about learning styles, then take some class time to help the students to find out their own learning styles and preferences. Give the simple terms to describe the cognitive styles and sensory modes. Guide from this discovery to suggesting learning and practice techniques that utilize the student’s strengths.
As a teacher, you are an “expert” in not only the subject matter, but also how to learn. Although these terms and concepts may seem obvious to a teacher with training and experience, they are exciting news to someone who is beginning to rediscover the world of learning.
Provide your students with a language and a set of ideas, to talk about how to learn. You can’t save them all, but for those who are ready, your class may be their final hope for academic success. Be prepared to help, and make sure they know you care.
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