Difference Between Young Language Learners And Adult Language Learners.

Learning English as a foreign language can be initiated at any age. Not only young students, but adults can learn English as well. But there are some differences between Young and adult learners ,when it comes to their learning, which are as follows-

1. Freedom - Adult learners are self dependent. It's highly favourable to let them work things out for themselves while helping them where they need. While young learners aren't very self reliant. They depend on the instructors specifications to understand and grasp the language.

2. Process of learning- Adults can spend more time on learning tasks so it is possible to engage more deeply with the learning materials, while young learners need to be provided with various tasks and activities, which can relate to different senses. Activities in a young learners classroom should be short.

3.Apprehensions - Generally adults are more nervous and anxious because of the age factor. They might feel that they are too old to be a part of learners brigade. They need more positive encouragement from the instructors, to help them feel more comfortable. Young learners, on the other hand , do not have any such consternation. They feel more at ease to learn , as long as it's interesting.

4. Stimulation- Adults are more likely to be more motivated. This is because they feel the need to learn English, so that it can help them which means they are self encouraged. Young learners mostly don't have any choice. They learn only if they find something interesting. That is why, the teacher has to make sure that students might not lose enthusiasm to learn.

5.Regulation - It's not a big issue to discipline adults as they are grown ups and they know how to behave. Secondly ,they join classes out of their own choice. For young learners, discipline has to be impacted both calmly and effectively so that they learn the importance of good management along with the language.

6.Life Experience - Adults have a collection of life experiences with them , and this can help them implanting their own ideas and opinions while learning language. On the other hand, young learners have just started out with their life journey and are still learning, so more than experience, they bring enthusiasm and lots of urge and energy to learn.

7) Attention Span- There is a substantial difference, when it comes to attention span of adults and kids. Children, especially young ones have a very low attention span. They can't concentrate on things for long, and once they feel bored of what they are studying or learning, they start looking for something else. That is why, it's the responsibility of teachers teaching kids, to make the content interesting, so that the lessons are able to bind the attention of kids for an increased span of time.

NEHA SHARMA 🌷