Examining Postsecondary Instructor Perceptions of Adult Learners

• In Event: AERA Virtual Poster Session 2
  In Poster Session: Adult Literacy and Adult Education Posters

Abstract

The population of adult learners, defined as undergraduate students ages 25 and over, is steadily increasing at post-secondary institutions in the United States. As this population continues to grow, instructors are challenged with a shift in their student demographics. Recent literature has exposed gaps in experiences and knowledge of adult learning theories during the instructor’s own coursework and professional development. To explore instructor beliefs and behaviors with adult learners, Brinthaupt and Eady’s (2014) Adult Learning Survey was selected for the current study. The survey was administered to instructors across the country (N=83). Findings indicated instructor differences in the perceptions of and experiences with adult learners based on their years of teaching experience, institution type, and teaching schedule.

Authors

• Brittany Boyd, American Institutes for Research

• Ramon Goings, University of Maryland - Baltimore County