The Experiences of Nontraditional Students: A Qualitative Inquiry. Issue 3 (2nd September 2017)

• Record Type: Journal Article
• Authors: Bohl, Amanda J.; Haak, Beatriz; Shrestha, Srijana
• Is Part Of: Journal of continuing higher education. Volume 65:Issue 3(2017)
• Page Start: 166
• Page End: 174
• Publication Date: 2017-09-02
• Subjects: benefits -- challenges -- nontraditional -- qualitative -- undergraduate; Continuing education -- Periodicals; Education, Higher -- Periodicals; University extension -- Periodicals; Graduate students -- Periodicals; 374
• DOI: 10.1080/07377363.2017.1368663
• Languages: English
• ISSNs: 0737-7363

Abstract

Abstract: The number of nontraditional students enrolled in higher education is rising, but retention of these students is a challenge. This study used a qualitative framework to examine the experiences of nontraditional undergraduate students in a university setting. Nine participants completed open-ended questionnaires, and we transcribed and coded the responses for themes. When discussing their experiences, participants spoke of five overarching themes: motivations to return, academic challenges, generation gap, support systems, and benefits of being a nontraditional student. This study contributes to the literature, providing insight to the overall collegiate experience of degree-seeking, nontraditional students.