One Good Idea for Teaching Adults
“One good idea. I’m not looking to be overloaded more than I am. Just give me one.”

This month we have the last part in the four-part series “One Good Idea.” Pastor Dan Schroeder of St. Peter Lutheran Church in Modesto, California, will share one idea for teaching adults, youth, children, and confirmation. Although each group has different learning needs, the one good idea for the month may spark ideas for teaching other age groups. This month’s article focuses on teaching adults.



Pastor Dan Schroeder serves as pastor at St. Peter Lutheran Church in Modesto, California. He previously served in Jackson, Wisconsin; Chula Vista, California; and as Bible Study Editor at Northwestern Publishing House.
They never stopped teaching and proclaiming the good news that Jesus is the Messiah. — Acts 5:42
Adult Education: Additum
Debriefing and Spiritual Growth

Martin Luther wrote, “This life is not righteousness, but growth in righteousness; not health, but healing; not being, but becoming; not rest, but exercise.” In this thesis, the author demonstrates that debriefing is a powerful tool for spiritual growth: taking an event or an activity and reflecting on it, connecting it with what people were thinking or feeling, as a means to help them grow. This thesis was written by Justin Heise as part of the requirements for a degree from Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary.

Teaching Toolbox
Avoiding Filler Words like "Um"

When leading a Bible study, a teacher may need to verbally expound on parts of a study. Sometimes our presentation can be a distraction for the learners because of filler words we include in our responses. If you aren’t sure if you do this, ask a trusted friend who can be honest with you or have someone take a video of you during a study. This article gives suggestions on how to avoid filler words.




Curriculum Connection
Sing to the Lord:
A Study of Lutheran Hymnody

The hymns in our hymnal are rich in content and history. If you are looking for a study that is flexible in the number of weeks it can be used (perhaps perfect for the summer months), consider using the Bible study Sing to the Lord: A Study of Lutheran Hymnody by Geoffrey Kieta. The study also includes a lesson on hymns from Christian Worship: Supplement.

 
Click below for a sample lesson.

 
Order the Complete Study.
Teaching Tip
Reflecting on
Teaching Techniques and Attitudes

In order to avoid becoming a stuck and stubborn teacher, a successful educator takes time to reflect on their methods, their delivery, and the way they connect with their students. Reflection is necessary to uncover those weaknesses that can be strengthened with a bit of resolve and understanding.

  Teach the Word  is a collaboration of Northwestern Publishing House,
Wisconsin Lutheran Seminary, and WELS Discipleship.