Introduction to Adult Education in New Mexico

Introduction to Adult Education in New Mexico is the required introductory course for new employees with teaching or teaching oversight responsibilities in NMHED/AEFLA-funded adult education programs. The intended audience includes instructors, paid tutors (not student or work-study), instructional program coordinators, and program directors. This course provides an overview of three key aspects of adult education in our state: adult learning theories, content standards, and the connection between data and instruction.

• The adult learning section addresses the andragogical principles that form the foundation of adult education teaching methods.

• The content standards section introduces participants to College & Career Readiness Standards and English Language Proficiency Standards, which are the basis of the adult education curriculum.

• The funding and governance section explains the legal requirements for adult education programs and the role that each program employee plays in meeting those requirements.

Course Outcomes:

1. Apply adult learning theory to policies, procedures, and instruction

2. Align curriculum and instruction with College and Career Readiness Standards (CCRS) and/or English Literacy Proficiency Standards

3. Interpret historical trends in adult education legislation and apply current requirements to connect student outcomes to their personal success and the impact those outcomes have on program funding