Resource
Fueling the Race to Postsecondary Success: A 48-Institution Study of Prior Learning Assessment and Adult Student Outcomes

Date Published
2010

Full Author Citation
Klein-Collins, R.

Download
332 CAEL 2010.pdf (.pdf 2.86 MB)

Source
The Council for Adult & Experiential Learning

Description

Adult learners pursuing their postsecondary degrees after time away from the classroom need additional support to stay in school, different from the traditional student. Common strategies for helping adult learners achieve their goals are innovative academic programming, increased and creative financial aid opportunities, and support services. This study examines another strategy, Prior Learning Assessment, or PLA, which is the process by which colleges evaluate for academic credit the college-level knowledge and skills an individual has gained outside of the classroom such as through employment, the military, or hobbies. The findings show positive outcomes for PLA students who, compared to non-PLA students, had higher degree-earning rates and earned degrees in less time, saving on costs to the individuals and the institutions. Additionally, the report discusses PLA methods offered among the 48 colleges and universities studied, characteristics of the adult learners who participate in PLA, and their college-going behavior.


Phase
Completion Entry Progress

Topic
Assessment & Course Placement Characteristics of Success-Prone Institutions College Readiness Measures & Standards Student Persistence & Continuous Attendance

Resource Type
Research

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