Now is the time to reflect on goals, plan for future

As we enter a new decade, it is a perfect time to reflect on our goals and plan for the future. If improving your economic status, finding a better paying job, furthering your education, or simply feeling more confident about yourself is one of your goals for 2020, earning your GED® credential could be a good place to start. There is time to make a commitment and complete this important educational goal by the end of the year.

Adult learners, unlike children in public school systems, have no laws requiring them to attend school. Instead, they seek out opportunities to learn because of their own internal motivation to achieve their goals. However, adults may sometimes have trouble defining their personal or educational goals. When needing help with this task, they may look to their local adult education program for assistance.

When adult learners enroll in a program, they usually remain there because they see the possibility of achieving their goals. Because of its importance to learner achievement and retention, goal setting is an important aspect of adult education programs.

Goal setting is an interactive process that involves learners in identifying and recording their goals. Goals should always be attainable and measurable. A timeline for achieving goals should be based on an instructional plan and pertinent learning activities. Goals should also undergo periodic review and revision.

Adult education staff can help assess how prepared learners are to achieve their goals, what is involved in preparing to reach those goals, and how long it might take to complete the process. In his definition of self-directed learning, Malcolm Knowles, who is considered the father of adult learning, describes a process “in which individuals take the initiative, with or without the help of others, in diagnosing their learning needs, formulating learning goals, identifying human and material resources for learning, choosing and implementing appropriate learning strategies and evaluating learning outcomes.” His description emphasizes goal setting as a means to achievement.

Learners benefit from goal setting in several ways. They begin by taking ownership in their own learning and setting realistic expectations. They can develop an understanding of short-term and long-term goals. Individuals will be motivated by a clear learning plan and will develop higher self esteem as they work toward achieving those goals. Learners will share in a collaborative approach to their learning as they are involved in the process of monitoring and evaluating their own progress.

Do you need help setting some meaningful educational goals? Contact Southwest Regional Adult Education at 866-581-9935 for our schedule of classes. For more information, visit us on online at https://sites.google.com/russell.k12.va.us/adulted. Enroll in a tuition-free GED® test preparation class now, and set a goal to complete your GED® testing in 2020. Setting and achieving goals can put you on the right track for a better future.

GED® is a registered trademark of the American Council on Education. Used under license.