Community College Virtual Forum: Understanding and Supporting the Success of Adult Learners in Community Colleges

Demand for skilled labor continues to increase in the United States.  Adults over the age of 25 were the most economically devastated by the COVID-19 pandemic and they may be looking for ways to improve their job prospects long-term.  Enrolling in a community college is one of the most affordable and accessible ways for this population to improve their skills for the labor market. Adult students make up 38 percent of the national undergraduate population overall and, in the coming years, community colleges are likely to see an increase in adult learners’ enrollment (OCTAE, 2020). The purpose of this presentation is to use available research to describe the diverse population of adult learners who enroll in community colleges as well as their varying experiences and outcomes. This presentation will also highlight the gaps in knowledge around adult learners and the areas in which there is minimal research on this population. Learning from this presentation, practitioners and policymakers focused on improving outcomes for adult learners will take away important information on the challenges these students face as well as the practices and research that are required to address these challenges. Looking at the student trajectory through the Guided Pathways lens, the presenters will explore the supports and offerings that may be adapted to better serve adult learners, and particularly adult learners of color. The presenters will conclude by also providing examples of programs currently in community colleges that support the needs and success of adult learners.