Learner Goal Setting in Adult Education Programs

Did you know that one of the major factors contributing to learner persistence is goal setting with the learner? Did you know that learners most often cite as a reason for dropping out that their classes didn’t meet their needs and expectations? Learn how to set realistic goals with each learner and then revisit and revise goals throughout the semester so that students feel comfortable that your class is meeting their needs.

GOAL AND OBJECTIVES

Goal

The goal of this workshop is to provide strategies for adult education teachers to help learners set realistic goals and to revisit and refine those goals, as necessary, throughout the program year.

Objectives

By the end of this workshop, participants will be able to

• Define characteristics of a “good goal”;
• List benefits of, as well as barriers to, goal setting;
• Describe research related to learner persistence and the role of goal setting;
• Identify steps in the goal-setting process, including helping learners to identify and set realistic goals, develop a goal plan, monitor progress toward reaching goals, and adjust goals as needed;
• Discuss ways to link goal setting to curriculum and instruction; and
• Begin the process of identifying and bringing about necessary changes to incorporate learner goal setting into adult education programs.