Connect Classroom Roles to Workplace Skills

Give adult learners classroom roles that mirror real workplace positions to build both confidence and career readiness. For example, during group work:

• Manager keeps time and says, “5 minutes left.”
  
   
• Administrative Assistant takes notes and checks for accuracy: “Did you say ___?”
  
   
• HR encourages participation: “What do you think?” or “Let’s hear from ___.”
  
   
• IT supports tech use: “Tap here,” or “Scroll down.”
   

These simple roles help learners practice communication, leadership, and collaboration in a meaningful, job-related context.

Thank you to Jayme Adelson-Goldstein of Lighthearted Learning for sharing this idea in her session Scaffolding & Differentiation: Building Knowledge and Making a Difference, presented at ATLAS's Spring 2025 Minnesota Adult Basic Education Virtual Conference. For questions or comments about this Tutor Tip, contact Training Specialist Meghan Boyle at [email protected].