This study aimed to investigate the lived experiences of adult learners aged 25 and up who identify as transfer students. The study's first phase included ten participants who previously attended community college and transferred to a university to seek a bachelor's degree. The study's second phase identified narrative themes across the participants’ narratives. This involved analyzing participant responses to interview questions.
The findings revealed three key themes that summarized participants' experiences as adult learner transfer students and the factors influencing their decisions. Learning curves, demotivating experiences, and influential factors that shaped participants' perceptions of their experiences were identified.
Recommendations were made to reassess current articulation agreements and transfer student policies and procedures that intend to aid transfer students pursuing a bachelor’s degree. Additional suggestions were made for future research to explore the depth of this study’s themes across various transfer student populations.
Outline of Studies:
Major: Educational Leadership, Higher Education
Educational Career:
- B.S., 2008, FLORIDA AGRICULTURAL AND MECHANICAL UNIVERSITY
- M.Ed., 2010, ARIZONA STATE UNIVERSITY
Committee in Charge:
Dr. RoSusan Bartee
Dr. Michael Preston
Dr. Nancy Marshall
Dr. Laurie Campbell
Approved for distribution by Dr. RoSusan Bartee, Committee Chair, on February 21, 2023.
The public is welcome to attend. Please contact Committee Chair for details regarding attendance.
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