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An evolutionary response to adult learners: The urban small college

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Abstract

This paper explores the emergence of a new species of institution-the urban small college-which is distinguished in part by degree programs for adults. The discussion is intended to be a useful resource for academic and student service personnel at these small colleges who, usually without any training in adult education, must develop programs for local, working adults and integrate them with their existing curricula and services for traditional-aged, residential students. Five specific recommendations are made based on a transcript study of graduates at an urban small college in Portland, Oregon.

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Authors and Affiliations

  1. Portland State University, USA

    Douglas L. Robertson (Assistant Professor of postsecondary education)

Authors
  1. Douglas L. Robertson
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Additional information

He received his Ph.D. in 1978 from Syracuse University. His current research focuses on improving policy and practice related to adult higher education.

A Northwest Regional Research Grant from the Council for Adult and Experiential Learning (CAEL) provided partial financial support for the study reported in this article.

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Robertson, D.L. An evolutionary response to adult learners: The urban small college. Innov High Educ 16, 39–48 (1991). https://doi.org/10.1007/BF00911557

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