Choosing the right course for you. Principles of Adult Learning (yes…this means you!)

 

Ok…you are ready to take a continuing education course to help you advance your career as a physical, occupational or speech therapist, and you are trying to choose one. When you look at the outline of the course, ask yourself these questions: 

  1. What is it you wish to attain from this continuing education course? Most adult learners are goal-oriented.  Look at the course objectives and ask yourself if this is what you want to learn. It’s as simple as that!
  2. Is this a practical course or a theory course? Most adult learners are practical, focusing on the aspects of a lesson most useful to them in their work. Does the course address issues that you face at work?
  3. How do you learn best? Most adult learners need active involvement in the learning process with facilitation from an instructor. If this describes you, look for courses with case studies focusing on treatment in a particular area that you treat. Small group work allows for peer interaction, which is also very helpful to the learning process.
  4. Adults have accumulated a foundation of life experiences and knowledge that they want to connect to this new knowledge about the particular topic. If you have experience treating a patient/client with this particular diagnosis, you will probably have that “aha” moment when the learning connections are solidified. This will give you new treatment ideas to take back to the clinic after the course!

 As always, feel free to call us to speak to a therapist to help you choose a continuing education course that is right for you! 508-359-6533

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