Adult learning of a new language takes work. From demanding schedules and professional obligations, to what’s likely going to be self-doubt when you step outside of your comfort zone, adult learners have unique challenges — particularly in an online setting. At ELAM, we’ve learned and honed our approach to corporate language training for years and know that engaging students is the backbone of real, lasting progress. So how do you drive adult learners to motivation, present, and genuinely, legitimately inspired engagement with their French courses? Here are our top strategies.
Make It Relevant to Their World
Adult learners are purpose-hungry. And unlike younger students, before spending their energy on something, they need to understand why it is necessary to learn it. That is why at ELAM, we adapt our curriculum to the professional context of each learner — whether they are preparing for meetings with a client in Paris, composing emails to francophone colleagues, or working through day to day interactions in a bilingual workplace. Engagement simply flows when the material mirrors the everyday life of our learners. Relevance is the biggest single motivator.
Build a Connection with the Teacher
The teacher-student relationship is everything. Adult learners learn best when they feel seen, respected and understood. But perhaps some types of teaching style that appeal to one learner may feel completely off for another — and that’s all right. At ELAM we believe the right fit is key. Learning stops being a chore and becomes a discussion when a student sees themselves reflected in their teacher’s personality and approach. That’s why we take learner feedback very seriously. If something is not working, we listen, adapt, and act.
Set Clear, Attainable Goals
Nothing disincentivizes motivation better than the sense that you’re going nowhere. Deciding on short-term, measurable goals — learning a given set of vocabulary, holding a five-minute conversation, or emailing a professional client with minimal support — allows adult learners to see tangible accomplishments they can celebrate. Progress, even incremental progress, kindles momentum. At ELAM, we partner teachers and learners together to chart out a precise learning roadmap from day one — so every session feels meaningful.
Keep the Sessions Dynamic and Interactive
Online learning doesn’t have to be the equivalent of sitting in silence staring at a screen. The best virtual language lessons are spirited, varied, and interactive. Role-plays, real-time discussions, quizzes, and case studies all provide a break from the mundane and keep the brain engaged. At ELAM, we give our teachers the freedom to mix styles and pace sessions to fit the learner’s energy at any given moment.
Respect Their Time — and Their Efforts
Adult learners are busy. When they show up to class, that is a commitment worth acknowledging — and one that makes every minute count. Equally important is forming a judgment-free space in which mistakes are a natural part of the process, something to learn from rather than be ashamed of. At ELAM, we develop competency as much as we build confidence, because an engaged learner is, above all, a learner who is willing to try.
Ready to experience language learning designed for adults, by adults? Learn how ELAM can create a French-language program that works for your team. Get in touch with us today.