What does an adult education class look like?

Southwest Regional Adult Education (SRAE) serves adult learners age 18 or older by offering tuition-free classes in the counties of Buchanan, Dickenson, Russell, and Tazewell. Subjects taught in SRAE classes include mathematics, language arts, science, and social studies in preparation for the GED® tests; basic skills reinforcement in reading and math; National Career Readiness Certificate curriculum; Paraprofessional (ParaPro) Certification curriculum; and Northstar Digital Literacy practice modules and assessments.

What does an adult education class look like? Let’s find out from instructor Charles Boyd who teaches at the VA Career Works-Grundy Plaza Center on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 5 to 8 p.m.

What methods of study are utilized in your classroom? Mr Boyd: Instruction is differentiated based on the needs and abilities of the individual. Students have access to online curriculum using Chromebooks and Wifi along with additional resources such as textbooks and workbooks.

How do you keep adult students engaged in learning? Mr. Boyd: Adult students are kept engaged through personalized individual instruction that is catered to the student’s needs and goals.

In light of the COVID-19 pandemic, how are you providing a safe learning environment for your students? Mr. Boyd: Wearing a mask and social distancing are required. We also strive to offer a clean location with a sanitation center located centrally in the room.

How is attending your class different from the traditional K-12 setting? Mr. Boyd: Learning in my class is student-driven; adults are not required by law, in most cases, to attend my class. The adults who choose to attend class want to or need to for themselves or for their families.

As an instructor, what do you enjoy most or find most rewarding about teaching adult learners? Mr. Boyd: I enjoy assisting adults in increasing their academic abilities whether they ever complete their GED® or not. Knowing that I have been able to help them better themselves is what makes working with adult learners rewarding.

What is key to student success in your classroom? Mr. Boyd: Putting in time and effort both in and out of class is what helps students succeed in the adult education classroom.

Mr. Boyd continues, “I would like to openly invite any adult learners who are interested in earning their GED® credential or simply need some assistance in the basic core areas or in technology to come to my class at the VA Career Works-Grundy Plaza Center on Monday and Wednesday evenings from 5 to 8 p.m. I do my best to make the class enjoyable while meeting the needs of the individuals in the class.

Due to possible schedule changes, if you are interested in attending this class or any other adult education class in the region, please contact Southwest Regional Adult Education toll-free at 866-581-9935. Distance learning options are also offered.

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