ERIC Number: EJ1173508
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2018
Pages: 12
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: ISSN-0737-7363
EISSN: N/A
Reimagining Student Engagement: How Nontraditional Adult Learners Engage in Traditional Postsecondary Environments
Rabourn, Karyn E.; BrckaLorenz, Allison; Shoup, Rick
Journal of Continuing Higher Education, v66 n1 p22-33 2018
Adult learners are a growing population in U.S. postsecondary education who experience distinct barriers to academic success. However, higher education institutions continue to create and adhere to policies that favor traditional college students. Thus, adult learner experiences must be better understood to ensure this population is supported. This study used data from the 2013 and 2014 administrations of the National Survey of Student Engagement to identify characteristics of adult learners and compare their engagement with traditional-aged students. Our regression analysis revealed that adult learners were more likely to take their classes online, begin their education at another institution, and enroll part-time. Adult learners also were more engaged academically and had positive perceptions of teaching practices and interactions with others, despite reporting fewer interactions with faculty and peers and less supportive campuses. These findings challenge institutions to continue to seek a deeper understanding of how adult learners engage with postsecondary education.
Descriptors: Nontraditional Students, Adult Students, Learner Engagement, Comparative Analysis, Regression (Statistics), College Freshmen, College Seniors, National Surveys, Student Surveys, Barriers, Student Characteristics, Online Courses, Full Time Students, On Campus Students
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Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Adult Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Identifiers - Assessments and Surveys: National Survey of Student Engagement
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A