The rapid convergence of information and technology, the increased move towards automation and AI, and the changes in employment opportunities and environment caused by the pandemic have all accelerated the need for working adults who have some college credit but have not completed a degree to gain additional credentials.
While universities may well view these potential students as an attractive demographic to pursue–especially as they struggle with decreases in the “traditional” student population–there are specific aspects of difference that must be kept in mind if the needs of returning adult learners are to be met adequately, absent which these students are unlikely to attend public universities.
