7 Habits of Successful Adult Learners
Realizing Accomplishment in Continuing Education Programs
May 12, 2009
Adults considering enrolling in continuing education programs have a lot to consider. When most adults consider enrolling in such programs they have already developed a routine lifestyle. They may be married with a family or have other life commitments. Maybe they remember their undergraduate experience and do not want to replicate that experience. Maybe their work commitments are so great that furthering their education does not seem possible.
Regardless of the situation anyone may be in his or her current life, there is always the need for additional education. Employers expect their employees to remain current in their career field and many career fields require continuing education to remain certified. When adults decide to enroll in such programs, success is a result of how they approach the commitment to the program.
Habits of Successful Learners
Success of adult learners in education programs is based on habits they already have or will develop. The following are common habits of adult learners and indicators of success:
1. Successful adult learners do not procrastinate. They do not put off assignments or wait until the just before an assignment is due to work on it. They plan how and when to complete assignments, work at their own pace, and like the freedom to complete work on their schedule. They realize that procrastination is the path to being unsuccessful and add additional time to complete a program.
2. Successful adult learners are focused. They are not easily distracted and are annoyed when being distracted. They have the ability to filter out interruptions and keep working during scheduled study times. They have the ability to pass on social events that interfere with designated periods which are set aside for course work.
3. Successful adult learners are specific goals. They know what they want to accomplish and how to accomplish their goals. Regardless if their goal is to earn a certificate, bachelor degree, masters degree, or doctorate the program, that goal is their center of attention until it is complete. They have written short term and long term goals, along with a continuing education action plan.
4. Successful adult learners have resolved financial issues. They established a source of funding for their continuing education right from the beginning, and have investigated sources of free money.
5. Successful adult learners conducted a thorough research of a continuing education program. They researched and evaluated the school they attend to decide if the program meets their goals and is appropriately accredited. They also verified with their employer or professional association that the school and its programs are respected by members in their profession.
6. Successful adult learners do not require someone looking over their shoulder. They are self-motivated and set their own goals. They establish a schedule and keep to the routine. They need little encouragement, complete tasks on time, and never settle for second best.
7. Successful adult learners have good reading and comprehension skills. They are always on a tight schedule with family and work commitments, so they rarely have time to read and reread course material. They have a high reading level ability and quickly grasp details without too much guidance from instructors.
Making Connections as a Successful Adult Learner
The common habits of successful adult learners guides their completion of continuing education programs through dedication and will power. Success or failure rests squarely on their shoulders, and no one else's. Their overall view is that any short-term sacrifice is well worth the effort, as long as long-term goals are met and success becomes a reality.
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