Strategies for Re-Enrolling Adult Learners at Community Colleges. Center on Education & Labor & Education Policy
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| Title: | Strategies for Re-Enrolling Adult Learners at Community Colleges. Center on Education & Labor & Education Policy |
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| Language: | English |
| Authors: | Ivy Love, Sarah Nzau, Tiffany Thai, New America |
| Source: | New America. 2025. |
| Availability: | New America. 740 15th Street NW Suite 900, Washington, DC 20005. Tel: 202-986-2700; Fax: 202-986-3696; Web site: https://www.newamerica.org |
| Peer Reviewed: | N |
| Page Count: | 34 |
| Publication Date: | 2025 |
| Document Type: | Reports - Evaluative |
| Education Level: | Adult Education Higher Education Postsecondary Education Two Year Colleges |
| Descriptors: | Adult Students, Reentry Students, Community College Students, Community Colleges, College Enrollment, Student Recruitment, Enrollment Management, Student Financial Aid, State Aid, Educational Finance, Outreach Programs, Technical Assistance, Academic Support Services, Coaching (Performance) |
| Abstract: | This report examines strategies to re-engage adult learners in U.S. community colleges, where enrollment has declined after the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing on a literature review, state policy landscape analysis, and 15 interviews with college administrators and experts, we document institutional, state, and third-party efforts to encourage re-enrollment, persistence, and credential completion. Approaches employed by community colleges and third-party vendors include personalized outreach, dedicated coaching/advising, flexible scheduling, accelerated programs, and financial incentives. State-level initiatives provide funding, coaching/navigation, and technical assistance, though sustainability and coordination vary. We highlight the importance of balancing statewide support with institutional autonomy and underscore the need for further research on the effectiveness of strategies to increase adult learner success. |
| Abstractor: | As Provided |
| Entry Date: | 2026 |
| Accession Number: | ED680370 |
| Database: | ERIC |
| Abstract: | This report examines strategies to re-engage adult learners in U.S. community colleges, where enrollment has declined after the COVID-19 pandemic. Drawing on a literature review, state policy landscape analysis, and 15 interviews with college administrators and experts, we document institutional, state, and third-party efforts to encourage re-enrollment, persistence, and credential completion. Approaches employed by community colleges and third-party vendors include personalized outreach, dedicated coaching/advising, flexible scheduling, accelerated programs, and financial incentives. State-level initiatives provide funding, coaching/navigation, and technical assistance, though sustainability and coordination vary. We highlight the importance of balancing statewide support with institutional autonomy and underscore the need for further research on the effectiveness of strategies to increase adult learner success. |
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