TEACHING CRAFTS TO OLDER LEARNERS: SOME TIPS

Prior to entering a dodgy terrain let me not tell an exact age for a learner senior in age. Quite a while ago I participated in a project that gave money for training volunteers on doing crafts with senior learners who have crossed 50. So age is more related to attitude and capability and just number of years.

 

Quite a few problems that will come up are common.

Here are the points to browse through.

 

1. Motor problems

 

Limb movements of your learners may become stiff. Slow paced movement and weak grip of hands make it difficult for them to do craft work. They avoid participation because of problems with their hands. Try your best to give them maximum comfort.

 

 2Mental Blocks

 

After a certain period, mental blocks often develop regarding certain activities. Conclusions drawn from some previous experience make them think of themselves as incapable of the activity suggested. There should be encouragement on your part, and handle not with sympathy but understanding. Value their problem while resolving it.

 

3. Impaired senses

 

Watch out for difficulties in hearing or speaking. Focus on individual problems and help them. In case of hearing impairment, writing down things will help. The projects can be made bigger and colorful if it is an eyesight problem. At times, I too am more comfortable with bigger prints.

 

4. Agility of the mind

 

With age, the mental function in not always as sharp. That does not make us incapable, only it makes us slower. What you are saying may take longer for them to relate to their memory. The memory route often does not function properly or result in incorrect responses. You can make their participation easy with large doses of encouragement.

 

The pace of the project should always follow that of the learner, and not go by only time limit. Take care of everyone’s needs as you adjust things.