In Pursuit of Respect: The Adult Learner Attending Community College in the “New Economy”

Abstract

This qualitative study of 43 adult learners in an urban community college critically examines the theory of andragogy’s relevance in today’s “New Economy.” Findings encompass 1) an individual dimension detailing adult learners’ complex motivations for higher education; 2) an instructional dimension concerning the importance of involved, caring, and tolerant instructors who respect adult learners and facilitate their growth; and 3) an institutional dimension specifying forms of support adult learners identify as essential for success.

Keywords:

• Adult education
• andragogy
• diversity
• higher education
• online education
• student motivation