5 Quick Tips for Returning to Learning

Lifelong learning is now a fact of life.  Sometimes adult students who have had difficult early school experiences have a fear of returning to school.  The public education system is cantered around a few learning styles and types of intelligence.  

If your learning style or particular intelligence was not consistent with these you may have developed some anxiety about returning to school.  If this is the case (or even if it is not), it is important to consider many factors when researching adult education programs.  

Here are some important considerations:

– Interest and Passion:  Does this program fulfill at least in part, your dreams and aspirations?  So many of us are working at a version of the first job we obtained after we finished our formal schooling.  For some of us it is not the career we would have chosen, but burdened by adult responsibilities, we keep plugging away.  Don’t let yourself be swayed into education that keeps you moving in a direction that does not fulfill you.  

– Financing:  A good education is expensive.  Most reputable post-secondary education institutions will have access to student financing and payment plans.  Government student loans are available at most accredited Colleges in B.C.  You maybe able to obtain a bursary or scholarship.  You maybe able to cash in part of your RRSP without penalty.  Make sure you ask about these options.  

– Adult Learning:  Research has proven that adult learners learn the most effectively when their own life experiences are valued.  Experiential teaching methods have been proven to be the most effective with this group.  Make sure the institution places high value on experience and uses  experiential learning methodology.

– Time Management:  You are likely already juggling multiple roles.  You will be adding another one.  Have a family meeting and also tell your friends that you will be extra busy for a while.  Good friends will understand and your family will also step up if you are clear what your expectations are and communicate your gratitude and excitement about this opportunity.

– Study Skills:  You may want to brush up on your writing and study skills.  Research methods have changed dramatically in the past several years.  Talk to the institution and ask if you can obtain text books prior to the course start date.  Most of all – keep in communication with your instructor.  He or she will help you if you ask for assistance.  They want you to succeed.

Adults learners are wonderful to work with from an instructors point of view.  They have usually made great sacrifices to be in school.  They study hard, ask great questions, and bring a wealth of world experiences into the learning environment.  

New Programs Begin September 28, 2015

The following programs begin September, 28th  

• Professional Counsellor Diploma 
• Wellness Counsellor Diploma
• Addictions Counsellor Diploma
• Life Coach Diploma
• Life Skills Counselling Certificate
• Life Skills Coach Certificate