“85% of students enrolled in post-secondary institutions are non-traditional learners (i.e. single parent, working full-time, no high school diploma, etc.)”
You’re wrong if you think all it takes to be a good instructor is experience and industry knowledge. The transition from civilian to firefighter is a huge cultural change. Fire recruits straight out of high school will experience a huge change in teaching styles, learning environment, independence, etc. Older students may have english language challenges, family or child care considerations, technology intimidation, and competing obligations to work and school.
The successful fire instructor must understand different learning styles, be flexible in their teaching approach, be empathetic to students’ needs, and remain informed on current trends in firefighting and higher education. These things don’t just happen - they take a concentrated effort.
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