AAACE 2021 Annual Conference

Adult learners, Lifelong learning, equity

Continuous, lifelong learning has shifted postsecondary demographics requiring nuanced, lifespan perspectives to understanding of the “adult student” to support success. This session highlights our work to challenge assumptions of the adult learner while expanding strategic initiatives, reflexivity, and critical scholarship to advance the status of our program, staff, and students.

“Adult student” - a label that creates the false impression that all “adult” learners are alike. As advocates for equitable education, we must acknowledge and appreciate this diverse, multigenerational learner population as a heterogenous group that comes to higher education at different stages of the lifespan due to increased longevity, multi-stage life patterns, and a desire to remain relevant in an ever-changing workforce. Expanded intellectual engagement through continuous learning has already shifted postsecondary learner demographics which requires us to develop a more nuanced understanding of the “adult student” to best support their success. To redefine labels, overcome bias, and amplify the voice of our diverse, multigenerational learner population on our campus we are diligently working to increase credibility and recognition as campus experts to effect change for this marginalized group of learners. Engaging in reflective practice has allowed us to recognize and own our challenges as well as seize opportunities to advance innovative, campus-wide proposals to expand equitable education. This session will highlight the intricate balance between being change agents for all adult learners while expanding strategic initiatives, reflexivity, and critical scholarship to advance the status and legitimacy of our program, staff, and students at our institution.