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Motivating Students With Some College Experience to Re-Enroll and Complete Their Degrees

A recent study conducted by StraighterLine, an online course provider, in collaboration with UPCEA, has explored the motivations of the millions of Americans who have discontinued their college education without obtaining a degree. The research identifies various factors that have contributed to the challenges faced by adult learners in returning to higher education and suggests elements that may encourage re-enrollment.

Motivating Students Who Have Some College but No Credential

According to the National Student Clearinghouse Research Center, approximately 36.8 million Americans under 65 years old have some college credits but no degree. This growing demographic has become a focal point for colleges that are dealing with declining enrollment figures.

The study surveyed around 1,000 individuals who have not earned credentials and discovered a significant level of distrust towards higher education institutions. Initially, 84% of respondents believed that a degree was essential for achieving their career aspirations; however, this belief diminished to just 34% after they halted their studies. Additionally, only 42% of participants agreed that colleges and universities could be trusted.

Key Predictive Factors

Key predictive factors for these students’ willingness to return to education were highlighted in the study. Elements such as trust in educational institutions, effective communication, and recognition of the degree’s value were identified as significant motivators, along with traits like mental resilience and adaptability to new learning environments.

The Need for a “Reset”

Jim Fong, chief research officer at UPCEA, noted the discrepancies between the motivations and experiences of students with some college experience but no credential and the approach taken by educational institutions. He stressed the necessity of a “reset” in how higher education engages with this group, indicating that existing strategies may not align with the evolving needs of adult learners.

Financial Challenges and Enrollment Processes

Financial challenges emerged as a major obstacle for many respondents, with 72% citing the affordability of college programs as a vital factor affecting their decision to return. Furthermore, 58% reported lacking the financial resources necessary to pursue further education. Despite these challenges, among those who had applied to complete their credentials, 88% found the enrollment process to be efficient, and 84% felt adequately supported by their institutions.

Motivations for Resuming Education

The research also sought to identify motivations that might encourage individuals to resume their education. Findings indicated that 53% of individuals who had stopped out were motivated by the potential for a higher salary, while 44% aimed to achieve personal goals, and 38% expressed a desire to change careers.

Readiness Index for Educational Institutions

Additionally, the study proposed a “readiness index” designed to assist institutions in assessing whether individuals who have paused their studies are prepared to return. This index was developed by correlating survey participants’ overall readiness with factors such as trust in higher education, time management skills, career motivations, and personal support networks. Notably, students who withdrew from certificate programs tended to score higher in terms of readiness compared to those who left degree programs.

Conclusion: A Call for Re-evaluation

As many colleges face declining enrollment rates amid demographic changes, the findings from this study highlight the need for a re-evaluation of strategies to engage and support adult learners seeking to complete their education. With over 40 million adults in need of re-engagement efforts, the current educational environment requires adjustments to better understand and address the diverse needs of this population.

(Source: Inside Higher Ed)

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