Learner Needs

Assessments

Direct Methods

Direct Questions:

• What do you think are the three biggest problems people face?

• Could you give me two or three areas in your life that we should address?

• What topics would you like to see taught next quarter?

Direct Methods

Low Key Interviews:

• Our class seems pressured. Do you know why?

• What are the struggles that [age group] face today?

• How do you think [recent news] affects people?

Direct Methods

Questionnaires:

• Clearly stated purpose

• Anonymous• Carefully constructed

questions

Direct Methods

Interaction with family members:

• Student regarding the family

• Family regarding the student

Direct Methods

Personal visits:

• Home• Work• School

Direct Methods

Personal observation:

• Questions learners ask

• Body language• Class attendance• Class discussion• After-class activities

Indirect Methods

Books:

• Christian• Secular• Topics of best-sellers• Reviews

Indirect Methods

Magazines & newspapers:

• Consumer-oriented

• Question/answer columns

• Research studies

• Polls

Indirect Methods

Individuals interacting with the public:

• doctor• dentist• hairdresser • teacher• coach• etc.

Needs Inventory

Prioritize the age group’s Top 10 needs

Needs Inventory

Time references – problems faced:

• Past• Present• Future

Needs Inventory

Roles faced:

• spouse• parent• boss• employee• child• teacher• etc.

Needs Inventory

Categories of life:

• Physical• Emotional• Intellectual• Moral• Spiritual• Financial

How well do you know your learners?