An Investigation of the Pathways of Adult Learners With Prior College Experience Seeking to Return to College

• In Event: 47.045 - How Place and Time Shape the College Choice Process

Abstract

Over the course of a year, the author explored the prior college and re-entry experiences of five low-income adult learners of color. Each participant had prior college experience from at least two institutions of higher learning, but no credential or degree. Findings reflect participant doubt in higher education's ability to ever adequately serve and support participants with complex life circumstances and unequal access to resources, based on their past experiences. The study also reflects poor navigational structures for students seeking to return to either the same or a different college.

Author

• Constance Iloh, University of California - Irvine