Todays Adult Learner What is an Adult Learner

Today’s Adult Learner

What is an Adult Learner? 1. Does not enter college immediately after high school. 2. Attends part time rather than full time. 3. Works 35 hours a week or more. 4. Is financially independent as defined by financial aid criteria. 5. Has dependents other than a spouse. 6. Is a single parent. 7. First Generation (Croix) 06/01/09 2

Coaching At Risk Learners • Academic Advising is the only structure activity on campus in which all students have the opportunity for on-going, one-to-one interaction with a concerned representative of the institution. As such, advisors lay the groundwork for the success of academically underprepared students and “play a pivotal role in promoting resilience” (Miller & Murray). – Setting goals – Building Action Plans 06/01/09 3

Proactive Approach Online Human Touch (OHT) 1. Online Open Houses 2. Congratulatory Calls & Emails 3. Orientation 4. Online First-Year Experience 5. On-Campus Venues 6. Mondays with Maria 7. Resource Portal 8. On-going Reminders 9. Mentoring Program 10. Data Driven Decision-Making 06/01/09 2

Discussion & Questions 06/01/09 3

References Betts, K. , & Lanza-Gladney, M. (2010, March). Academic advising: ten strategies to increase student engagement and retention by personalizing the online education experience through online human touch. Academic Advising Today, 33(1), Retrieved from http: //www. nacada. ksu. edu/AAT/NW 33_1. htm Criox, W. (n. d. ). It's back to school for adult learners: new traditions in higher education. Retrieved from http: //www. worldwidelearn. com/education-advisor/indepth/adultlearners-online. php Miller, M. A. & Murray, C. (2005). Advising academically underprepared students. Retrieved from NACADA Clearinghouse of Academic Advising Resources Web site http: //www. nacada. ksu. edu/Clearinghouse/Advising. Issues/ Academically-Underprepared. htm 06/01/09 4