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Catch up on recent, and past Adult Education News.
Why Neuroscience and Technology are Key to Helping Us Rethink How Students Learn
For years, teachers studied learning modalities to best meet the instructional needs of all learners. The VARK learning theory first introduced by Neil Fleming in 1987 suggests knowledge acceleration occurs “via one of four core learning styles: visual (V), aural (A), read/write (R), or kinesthetic (K).” Teacher education programs advocate if “we cater to natural learning styles” then every individual will learn. Today, there’s uncertainty about “it’s overall effectiveness when it comes to learning outcomes.”
The New N-400 Application for Naturalization
On April 1, 2024, USCIS released a new fee rule (G-1055 effective immediately) and the updated N-400 Application for Naturalization (N-400 2024). The new fee rule edition of Form N-400 incorporates a request for a reduced fee based on household income. Certain applicants may be eligible to submit Form I-912 Request for Fee Waiver when they apply for naturalization. Use the Fee Calculator Tool to pay the correct amount.
Upcoming OTAN Activities - Week of April 29
For up-to-date upcoming professional development from OTAN and others, visit the California Adult Education Professional Development Calendar.
Adult Learner Variability Network
When working with any person, especially adults, an educator must first understand what impacts our students for them to fully engage in school. While we may empathize with obstacles which impact our students, we may not know how to strategically support them...until ALVN. The Adult Learner Variability Network (ALVN) offers classroom strategies, research and resources for particular Adult Learner Factors.
Understanding and Countering Antisemitism and Islamophobia in Schools
This article written by Rachael Fugardi, Jaci Jones, Caleb Kieffer, and Alon Milwicki from the Learning for Justice website presents facts about both Islamophobia and Antisemitism. With the conflict occurring in the Middle East, the rise in both is also taking place in our schools. The purpose of sharing this article is to “nurture...interest in understanding and engaging with what is happening in and beyond [our] communities... And we must do so in ways that reject bigotry.”
Upcoming OTAN Activities - Week of April 22
For up-to-date upcoming professional development from OTAN and others, visit the California Adult Education Professional Development Calendar. Schedule your Professional Development with OTAN today. OTAN can customize to suit your agency’s needs. For more ideas consult What OTAN Offers webpage.
The English Learner Family Toolkit
The U.S. Educational system can be difficult to navigate especially for people new to it. This helpful resource for educators, administrators, school staff, community organizations and families assist with learning about the educational system. Downloadable in four languages, English, Arabic, Chinese and Spanish, this toolkit is organized into six chapters with five sections. Chapter topics include:
Beyond the Box Applied to Adult Education
“Education has been shown to reduce recidivism by 48 percent.” This report was first published in 2016 and again with an updated version in April 2023, making educators aware of what “formerly incarcerated students face both during the admissions process and while enrolled” in higher education. Upon inspection, the recommendations in this report tailored to higher education also apply to our adult education agencies. This article intends to relay some pertinent information about things to consider when a formerly incarcerated adult enrolls in our programs.
Upcoming OTAN Activities - Week of April 15
For up-to-date upcoming professional development from OTAN and others, visit the California Adult Education Professional Development Calendar. Schedule your Professional Development with OTAN today. OTAN can customize to suit your agency’s needs. For more ideas consult What OTAN Offers webpage.
3 Essential ChatGPT Prompting Skills for ESL Teachers
While many people fear that A.I. “undermines the quality of education and allows students to cheat their way through assignments,” this technology, if used correctly, can also enhance many learning experiences. A.I. can assist language teachers with ideas about simulating conversations, role playing, and creating interactive stories. This article summarizes three additional ways AI can benefit the ESL student.