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Context and identity: exploring adult learners' experiences of higher education.
- Source :
- Journal of Further & Higher Education; Feb2008, Vol. 32 Issue 1, p85-97, 13p, 3 Diagrams, 3 Charts
- Publication Year :
- 2008
-
Abstract
- This article examines a longitudinal case study exploring the experience of a cohort of part-time, adult, work-based learners, mostly experiencing higher education for the first time. A wide range of instruments, including diaries and interviews, were used to collect data to explore, in some depth, the nature of the learning experience. Data analysis was undertaken using a matrix framework focusing on the positive and negative dimensions of the experience using the twin perspectives of learning context and individual identity. The study is shown to be part of a longer action research cycle. The study identified tensions between individual anticipation and anxiety and an institutional tension between positive conceptualisations of a supportive learning community contrasted with manifestations of higher education as an alien environment that actually hampers learning. The research was driven by the need to explore the development of a support infrastructure that addresses student needs. At one level the purpose of the research was to develop the course with a view to continuous improvement of the student learning experience. However, at the same time the research underlines the power of action research as a means of improving practice by formalising tacit reflection on learning and teaching and how this benefits both tutors and students by improving engagement and awareness of the learning process. [ABSTRACT FROM AUTHOR]
- Subjects :
- ADULT learning
ADULT students
LEARNING
TEACHING
HIGHER education
EDUCATION
Subjects
Details
- Language :
- English
- ISSN :
- 0309877X
- Volume :
- 32
- Issue :
- 1
- Database :
- Complementary Index
- Journal :
- Journal of Further & Higher Education
- Publication Type :
- Academic Journal
- Accession number :
- 28552212
- Full Text :
- https://doi.org/10.1080/03098770701781481