Given the robust nature of learning sciences research, this website is best viewed on tablets and computers. A small screen experience is coming in the future.
On June 22, 2021, we will launch updated strategies for the Math PK-2 model, as well as additional updates to the Navigator that highlight equity, SEL, and culturally responsive teaching. To learn more, visit our Site Updates (available in the "About" menu at the top of any page).
Hover to see how factors connect to Socioeconomic Status. Then click connected factors to explore strategies related to multiple factors.
Socioeconomic Status (SES) refers to an individual or family's social standing as compared to other families. It is usually measured by a combination of factors, including a family's education, occupation, and income, as well as access to social and cultural resources. Socioeconomic Status and educational attainment are tightly interconnected, and adult learners are often seeking to improve their Socioeconomic Status through continuing education and training opportunities.
According to the National Center for Education Statistics, 30% of adults living at or below the federal poverty line have not completed their high school credential. Many adults who are experiencing poverty struggle with basic reading, math, and digital skills, and having a high school credential does not guarantee that basic skills are in place.
In addition to inequitable access to high quality education and training opportunities, people who experience poverty or earn less than a family-sustaining wage may also be impacted by: housing insecurity, food insecurity, and job insecurity.
Additional factors such as the cost of continuing education, childcare, and transportation may also prevent individuals with lower SES from participating in adult and continuing education opportunities. The cost of digital devices and reliable broadband internet access may also widen what is often referred to as the digital divide. For many individuals, the childhood trauma associated with economic hardship and lack of access to financial, social, and educational resources at home and in the community can have long-term effects on academic achievement, health, and well-being into adulthood.
Using language that is accessible and appropriately leveled for each student allows all learners to feel successful and participate in learning.
When annotating, learners engage deeply with a text and make their thinking visible while reading, which supports Foundational Reading Skills.
Experts can answer questions and provide vocabulary, processes, feedback, and scaffolds to help learners deepen their understanding.
When adults can connect and communicate with authentic audiences about their interests and values, learning becomes more personally meaningful and relevant.
Developing empathy in educators and in learners is an iterative process that requires taking the time to understand and honor others' perspectives.
Case studies support authentic, active learning experiences centered around real world situations that present an account of a particular set of circumstances for learners to engage with.
When designing instruction for adults, expectations and goals should be clearly outlined to help learners focus on the material and make plans for success.
Adult learners can self-organize into groups called communities of practice to engage in longer-term examination of a topic to build deeper understanding.
Competency-based learning is self-paced, focused on mastery, and centered around demonstrating learning outcomes and skills rather than where or how they were attained.
When learners process and express information visually, they are activating more cognitive processes while Problem Solving.
Developing cultural awareness as an educator is an ongoing process that includes building empathy for diverse learners, intentionally recognizing how one's own identity intersects with learners' identities, and creating an awareness of how the environment can impact learners' Sense of Belonging.
Discussions about race can range from celebrating the importance of diversity to understanding the impact of racism from the perspective of those who have been historically marginalized.
Networking and supporting adult learners in expanding their social networks provide access to additional resources and Social Supports, which can impact their trajectory and Motivation.
Experiential learning is learning by doing, which may include self-directed learning activities.
Giving learners the opportunity to explain their thinking process aloud helps them to solidify their comprehension, and move knowledge into their Long-term Memory.
In an increasingly digital world, adults who struggle with using technology can benefit from direct instruction for an array of digital tools.
Teaching learners how to effectively search the internet is critical for helping them learn how to find accurate and relevant information and aids in developing information literacy.
Direct instruction in math strategies may support some adult learners once conceptual understanding is in place.
Research shows that, along with traditional reading comprehension strategies, learners use unique strategies to read the non-linear, hyperlinked structure of online texts.
Adult learners who are struggling with Foundational Reading Skills, including decoding and phonemic awareness, can benefit from explicitly learning phonics skills in an educational setting.
Seeing and using new words repeatedly and across contexts is critical for vocabulary acquisition.