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ERIC Number: ED580510
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2017
Pages: 167
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: 978-0-3552-9903-8
ISSN: EISSN-
EISSN: N/A
Exploring the Transition Experiences of First Generation Adult Learners to Undergraduate Education: A Qualitative Case Study
Wartalski, Russell D.
ProQuest LLC, Ed.D. Dissertation, Northern Illinois University
Adult learners and first-generation learners, as separate groups, have been matriculating in increasing numbers at colleges and universities over the last few decades. Research indicates that enrollment trends for these two groups are likely to continue to increase in the near future, with a growing number of students being dually classified as first-generation and adult. Separate literature bases exist that capture the learning styles and collegiate experiences of first-generation learners and adult learners, yet limited research exists that addresses the transition experiences of first-generation adult learners. This qualitative case study focused on exploring and describing the transition experiences of 10 first-generation adult learners to undergraduate education at one public, research-focused university in the midwestern region of the U.S. As such, four themes were addressed in this study, including (1) the major life events and disruptions that participants experienced that became the catalyst for change in their lives, (2) the ways in which participants navigated transition through undergraduate education, (3) the identification and use of institutional support sources among participants, and (4) the identification and use of external support sources among participants. Subthemes subsequently emerged within most of the major themes. Accordingly, this study begins to address the gap in scholarly research in understanding the experiences of dually classified learners in formal, post-secondary education. Findings from this study have implications for future research and practice. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
ProQuest LLC. 789 East Eisenhower Parkway, P.O. Box 1346, Ann Arbor, MI 48106. Tel: 800-521-0600; Web site: http://bibliotheek.ehb.be:2222/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml
Publication Type: Dissertations/Theses - Doctoral Dissertations
Education Level: Higher Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: N/A
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: N/A