2019 Annual Conference

Colleges and Universities

Shared Concurrent Session (Approx. 12 or 20 minutes)

This session is designed to discuss a newly published book of compelling stories of adult student persistence. The presenters will discuss how these stories connect with an evidence based theory of adult student persistence. The self-direction and commitment demonstrated by these adults is not only compelling, it is truly inspiring.

Program directors at the bachelor's, master's, and doctoral level are welcome at this session. The presenters will discuss the theoretical underpinnings that have lead to the various standards of practice for these successful returning adults.  Session participants will leave with a set of action steps that aid in program development and revision for streamlined and effective implementation of adult friendly practices. 

Session participants will engage in a dialogue facilitated by the presenters of various models and approaches that are producing effectiveness for many of the story participants. This session will present an opportunity to discuss strengths and weaknesses of specific approaches to adult student recruitment and retention. The presenters will display techniques to institute adult learner friendly practices, faculty buy-in, program cohesion, and effective curricular design and implementation based upon the findings from the book.

For over 100 years, nearly half of all students that enroll in American Colleges and Universities do not persist to graduation. Their stories are extensive and explain the reasoning for students giving up on their goal of obtaining a college degree. Yet, hundreds of thousands of college students stop out or drop out entirely from all types of universities across the world each and every year. While the factors are wide-ranging and complicated, one fact remains for these individuals. They are connected to nearly 36 million other Americans that have some college but no degree. This session explores their unique and inspirational stories of persistence based upon a newly published book by the presenters.

The presenters will formulate a powerpoint presentation incorporating conceptual frameworks from adult learning and development alongside practical applications used by institutions supporting these working adults. Curriculum design, delivery, and measurement for evaluation will be addressed. An interdisciplinary approach to student development and curricular design will be taken to incorporate all members of the audience.