The educator’s toolkit
How do adults learn? Start with what they already know.
A practical opening activity for understanding a group and adapting your tasks.
A group may share a learning topic while bringing very different experience. One person uses the tool daily, another is trying it for the first time, and someone else mainly needs the confidence to ask questions. A short needs check is a useful way to begin.
Three questions to start
Ask learners to complete three sentences: “I can already…”, “I want to learn…” and “I find it difficult to…”. They can write, speak or discuss their answers in pairs. Choose a format that is accessible to the group.
Allow a few minutes for individual answers. Then select one situation that appears in several responses. Use it as the first practical task.
Agree on an observable result
Replace a broad aim such as “learn the application” with an action: write a short message, organise files or check a source. Learners should know what they will be able to do when the exercise is complete.
Prepare two versions of the same task
The basic version can include step-by-step instructions. An extended version can ask learners to choose their own approach or adapt the result to a personal situation. A shared goal allows the group to discuss outcomes together while working at different speeds.
Leave room for attempts and questions
After a demonstration, allow time for independent practice. Notice where difficulties arise. Instead of taking over the mouse or finishing the work for someone, ask what they are trying to achieve and what step they are considering next.
Finish with a short reflection
Ask learners to identify one action they can now complete independently and one area that needs more practice. Use their answers to plan the next session and judge whether the task was useful for the group.