2019 Annual Conference

Colleges and Universities

Concurrent Session (45 minutes)

Homogeneous and secluded Appalachian areas have a unique culture, which tends toward collectivism and emphasizes self-sufficiency and family values. This presentation explores the role of these aspects in developing teaching and learning strategies for Appalachian adults, and shares insights from adult educators in this area.

Anyone educating in collectivist and individualist cultures may be interested in this session. Also, because this research looks into promoting the understanding of Appalachian adult learners, anyone who is interested in diversity might be interested in this session. Adult educators who desire to accommodate diverse adult learners and emphasize multicultural education as well as social justice may also find the session appealing.

Learning outcomes will include the following: an enhanced understanding of Appalachia and similar cultures; identification of key considerations in developing teaching and learning strategies for adult learners from Appalachia and similar cultures; and knowledge of effective practical learning and teaching strategies for adult students from areas with similar cultural characteristics. In short, session participants can expect to learn from examples actual strategies to accommodate these kinds of adult learners.

Appalachia has historically been one of homogeneity and seclusion (Bauer & Growick, 2003; Anglin, 2004 ; Massey, 2007). These characteristics have influenced the development of this culture as well as how it is perceived from inside and out (Ellis, 2013; Keefe, 2000). Appalachian culture is often also characterized as self-sufficient and more collective in nature than those in the rest of the U.S. Appalachians take pride in being independent and close knit with strong family values (Drake, 2001; Fischer, 1989; Hofstede, 2001; Tang & Russ, 2007). With these traits come a strong sense of commitment to extended family and a strong trust in, and willingness to help or receive help from, community members (Bauer & Growick, 2003). Appalachian culture is unique within the U.S. by its tendency toward collectivism. The presenters, serving as adult educators of a regional university in Eastern Kentucky, which is an important part of Appalachia, will share how the unique culture of Appalachia plays a role in the implementation of their adult and higher education graduate programs, and in how adult students from Appalachia learn and succeed. Examples and strategies to accommodate adult learners from Appalachia and similar areas will be shared during the presentation.

The session will consist of an oral presentation with PowerPoint slides that enumerate the unique culture of Appalachia, and practices of accommodating adult learners from the area in order to help them achieve academic success and personal growth. Presenters will also share practices, experiences, and challenges in teaching, and present perspectives regarding the development of the Appalachian area under pressures of globalization. The audience will be asked to share related experiences and perspectives and invited to ask questions. The presentation will be interactive throughout to help the audience be fully involved and engaged.