Mt. Desert Island Adult & Community Education

Maine Adult Education Program

Expectations of an MDI Adult Educator

Expectations for an Adult Education Instructor

  • Preparation and Organization
      1. Ensure all materials, resources, and equipment are ready before each class.
  • Subject Matter Expertise
      1. Demonstrate a deep understanding of the course content.
      2. Stay updated on trends and advancements related to the subject.
  • Facilitation Skills
      1. Foster a positive and inclusive learning environment.
      2. Encourage active participation and open discussion among students.
  • Communication Skills
      1. Communicate concepts clearly.
      2. Provide constructive feedback and encouragement.
      3. Be approachable and responsive to student questions and concerns.
      4. Keep open communications with MDI ACE staff regarding invoicing, cancellations, assistance, etc.
  • Cultural Sensitivity and Respect
      1. Be respectful of diverse backgrounds, perspectives, and experiences.
      2. Promote an atmosphere of mutual respect and collaboration.
  • Professionalism
      1. Be punctual and reliable in starting and ending sessions on time.
      2. Maintain appropriate boundaries with students while being approachable.
      3. Please leave facilities as you found them.
  • Encouragement of Lifelong Learning
    1. Inspire students to explore the subject beyond the course.
    2. Share resources and opportunities for continued learning.

Code of Conduct for Adult Education Instructors

As adult education instructors, we play a vital role in fostering lifelong learning, personal development, and social empowerment. To ensure a respectful, inclusive, and effective learning environment for all participants, we commit to the following principles and behaviors:

  1. Respect for Learners
    • Dignity and Worth: Treat all learners with dignity, respect, and fairness, recognizing their diverse backgrounds, experiences, and learning styles.
    • Non-Discrimination: Provide an environment free of discrimination, harassment, or bias. Ensure all learners have equal access to educational opportunities regardless of age, gender, race, ethnicity, religion, sexual orientation, or disability.
    • Encouraging Reflection: Encourage learners to reflect on their learning experiences and set goals for their continued personal and professional development.
    • Safe and Respectful Environment: Promote a classroom culture where all participants feel safe and valued. 
  1. Professionalism and Integrity
    • Honesty and Transparency: Communicate clearly and truthfully with learners regarding course content and expectations. Ensure learners receive timely and constructive feedback during instruction to maximize learning opportunities.  
    • Ethical Conduct: Avoid conflicts of interest and maintain professional boundaries with learners. Refrain from any behavior that could undermine trust or create discomfort for learners.
    • Punctuality and Preparation: Arrive on time for classes and be well-prepared with instructional materials. Use class time efficiently and respect the learners’ time.
  1. Support for Learners
    • Encouragement and Motivation: Foster a supportive and encouraging atmosphere, where learners feel comfortable asking questions, making mistakes, and actively participating.
    • Clear Expectations: Clearly communicate learning objectives, assessment methods, and expectations at the start of the course, and reinforce these throughout the learning process.
    • Constructive Feedback: Provide timely, specific, and constructive feedback that helps learners improve and build confidence.
  1. Commitment to Lifelong Learning
    • Empowerment: Empower learners to take ownership of their learning and apply their knowledge and skills to real-life situations, fostering a sense of achievement and personal growth.

By adhering to this Code of Conduct, adult education instructors demonstrate their commitment to fostering an educational environment that values respect, inclusivity, integrity, and the transformative power of learning. This code serves as a guide to help instructors navigate their responsibilities and contribute to the success of all learners. 

Acknowledgment:

Instructors are encouraged to review, reflect upon, and commit to this Code of Conduct. By doing so, they help maintain the professional and ethical standards that ensure a positive and impactful adult learning experience for everyone involved.