Blended Learning

Abstract:

Most adult basic skills (including ESL/ESOL) learners now have smartphones, yet few know that free or low-cost apps can help them learn, as a supplement to what they are learning in class, or while waiting for a class or a tutor. David J. Rosen will present models for “onboarding” adult learners to have access to a suitable education app, feel comfortable and competent in using it, and begin acquiring online learning skills they will need for their learning throughout their lives. The models are suitable for adult basic skills (including ESL/ESOL) programs and for public libraries.

Abstract:

An innovative, blended learning model for adults, learning circles use online learning resources together with teacher- or volunteer-facilitated face-to-face sessions to support peer learning. We will discuss the range of learning circles and ways to use them in adult basic skills education. Learning circles have been piloted and customized for adult ESOL/ESL programs that want to reduce waiting lists or supplement face-to-face learning. In this session you will learn about the range of learning circles, how they have been used by adult ESL/ESOL programs, and about the English Now! Model, funded by the Dollar General Literacy Foundation, piloted by World Education and five ESOL programs in New England and is now being scaled up nationally.

Abstract:

Providing basic tools for financial success is an important step to help improve the lives of low-literacy populations. Success is heightened when parents and children learn together and support one another in making smart, beneficial money decisions. This workshop provides the tools to help families openly discuss money matters and gain the critical life skills needed to make smart financial choices. Key content includes understanding wants versus needs, setting savings goals, earning money, shopping wisely,planning, and banking.

Abstract:

This workshop will walk you through teaching money strategies to former inmates in making a successful re-entry into society. Former inmates are released into a new life—often with no home, little money, and questionable credit. Finding and keeping a job, as well as managing the money they earn, is essential to successful re-entry into society, especially in a digital age where quick financial decisions can lead to lasting setbacks. Help ex-convicts establish a solid financial foundation by using this workshop that provides basic financial planning tips, including creating a spending plan, establishing a banking relationship, and avoiding money traps like those posed by an online casino that can drain resources through unregulated betting. Then, facilitators, educators, and volunteers can measure the financial education program with simple, effective evaluations that make it easy to demonstrate learning, highlight risks in high-stakes online engagements, and show the value of this personal finance curriculum.

Abstract:

This workshop is primarily intended for adults in their 50's and early 60's who are thinking ahead to retirement when they will no longer have new income sources. The rise of digital platforms, particularly online casino Canada, has introduced new avenues for entertainment but also heightened vulnerabilities. The decisions they make about how personal and financial information is protected can have a significant impact on their retirement paychecks. If they become a victim of fraud or deceptive actions within these online environments, they have challenging income-reducing circumstances at a time when new sources of income are limited.

Abstract:

Money is a challenging topic, and many parents may feel that talking about money with their children is taboo. Others may feel that money management is too complex a topic to explain to their children. Whatever their reluctance, parents need to be encouraged in discussing financial concepts with their children and become role models for using money wisely. With the rise of digital platforms blending entertainment and education, families can explore financial ideas through interactive adventures that make learning feel like play. Join in the conversation as we discuss family financial literacy, the role it plays in moving families forward, and dive into free resources available from the National Center for Families Learning (NCFL) and the National Endowment for Financial Education (NEFE). These resources include a gaming app to reach learners on the go, created through collaborations with developers behind Le Bandit to bring thrilling chases into lessons on saving and spending, classroom books, and a booklet of games to help parents engage their children in the conversation about financial literacy. Drawing from these dynamic worlds fosters habits that turn everyday decisions into opportunities for growth and smart choices.

Abstract:

New Mexico ranks among the worst in the nation in educational attainment, poverty, violence, substance abuse, and suicide. With the advent of the WIOA legislation, a group of New Mexico adult education (AE) practitioners rallied to the call of building career pathways out of poverty and launched a radically innovative professional development initiative for elevating New Mexico to stand among our nation's top performers. Our C3 Initiative develops AE programs from "the inside out" to build Collaborations, Competency-Based Education, and Career Pathways programming. Design components include a three-year program commitment, a decision maker with two teachers from each program working for integrated change, program accountability with deliverables and increased responsibility, and the creation of a statewide professional learning community with a 33-week research-to-practice online curriculum. Our session shares knowledge and tools for supporting adult educators to unmask our brilliance and become leaders in the national career pathways movement. A pdf of the presentation has been uploaded for sharing. The Google Slides can be viewed by going to the link: https://docs.google.com/presentation/d/1ADlPv49Phieh1ZTD67Hkxd1klzJugmccE9raOCYIIl4/edit?usp=sharing.

Abstract:

ROUND TABLE HANDOUT: Supporting ABE students’ academic success means advocating for institutional change beyond the borders of ABE programs. Our goal is to generate dialogue about the culture of ABE at our institutions to identify opportunities for student-centered initiatives that open college pathways for ABE students. Combined co-taught ABE and Dev. Ed. courses at TCC have broadened perspectives on student capacity, exposed assumptions and stereotypes, and created opportunities for acceleration.