Recent research reveals that many students are "swirling," or transferring more than one time, and not always vertically. This rise in swirlers suggests that some students choose transfer institutions that do not fit their needs. Yet, very little research examines the choices students make as they seek to transfer from one school to…

The expansion and diversification of postsecondary education in the United States has led to greater options for students and prospective students for pursuing a college degree. With the roll out and scale up of sophisticated education technology systems, an important trend in higher education today is distance education. Despite the growing…

Adult learners are enrolling in U.S. higher education at a growing pace. These students have obligations and needs that influence their preferences for programs of study, scheduling, and specific support systems. This article recommends a number of research-based institutional practices relevant to the welfare of adult student learners.

Recently there has been a resurgence of interest in competency-based education, a learning modality which is mastery-based, self-paced and focused on demonstrations of knowledge and skill rather than where or how they were attained (C-BEN, 2016; Cuckler, 2016; Tate & Klein-Collins, 2015; U.S. Department of Education, 2002). The face of higher…

This qualitative study, which uses a narrative research approach informed by Riessman's (2008) work, explores the "college choice" experience of seven adult students, age 25 and older, who pursue postsecondary education at a non-degree granting, less-than-two-year private for-profit institution in the Philadelphia metropolitan area. My…

This research report examines the expectations, attitudes and needs of adults who are thinking about earning postsecondary credentials after having spent some or in most cases many years in the workforce. Most of these prospective students hope a certificate or degree will advance their chances in the labor market, but they are greatly worried…

This study looks at when individuals consider postsecondary education, how they approach their decision, the different paths they decide to follow, the roles other individuals play in the process, and what information students seek and consider in their decisionmaking. This report focuses on the types and sources of information used during the…

Universities today attract a student population less homogeneous than those of past generations. The majority of all college students are women, and adults 25 years and older account for over 40% of all college enrollments. A study was conducted to examine inherent similarities and differences among college students with age a critical factor.…

This exploratory study examined the college search processes of 25 non-traditional adult students at two central New York State community colleges. Using a modified time-line interview, a method developed in communication and information sciences, the researchers found that the college student's choice process was significantly different for the…

Students' reasons for applying for admission to the University of North Dakota for the academic year 1979-80 were studied. Information was obtained from a question appearing on the admission application form completed by all new freshmen and college transfer students. Results revealed that students cited reasons related to academic program 40.2…

This bulletin is a guide for adults who are considering pursuing higher education. It lists some common reasons adults pursue additional education. College options are then explored. This section discusses the degrees and/or certificates offered, benefits, and program offerings of community, junior, and technical colleges; liberal arts colleges;…

A survey of 194 adult community college students and potential students in Ontario (Canada) investigated factors in education decision-making, for purposes of student recruitment. It was found that the Latent Variable Partial Least Squares model of analysis highlights best the important factors. (MSE)

Discusses the proliferation of college guides for prospective students and describes and evaluates 11 guides that address the opportunities in higher education for the older student, minorities and women, Christian and Jewish students, and students with special needs. (eight references) (LRW)

This guide is designed to help disabled students of all ages who are thinking about continuing their education after high school. It contains practical suggestions to assist in managing the daily challenges that arise. The guide focuses on expressing one's needs, being open to change, practicing self-advocacy, planning ahead, looking for the best…

Surveyed adult college students regarding their motivation for attending college and the relative importance of college choice criteria. Getting better jobs, gaining general knowledge, and enhancement of self-esteem were most frequently mentioned. Availability of desired programs, days/times of needed classes, locations of courses, cost, and…