Cultivating Engagement: Innovative Practices for Online Adult Education

Abstract

This article examines the evolving landscape of online adult education, focusing on community building and engagement strategies in higher education. With a growing number of non-traditional students in online graduate programs, educators must adapt to the challenges faced by adult learners. Through their experience coordinating the Higher, Adult and Lifelong Education Master’s program at Michigan State University, the authors highlight two innovative initiatives: the Speaker Series and the Online Masters Student Ambassadors program. The Speaker Series invites current students and alumni to address relevant contemporary issues related to student retention and sense of belonging. Meanwhile, Student Ambassadors provide prospective students with authentic insights into online learning experiences. The article reflects on the lessons we encountered in implementing these strategies and emphasizes the importance of learning opportunities outside the online classroom. Ultimately, it advocates for a holistic approach to online adult education enriching the educational journeys of adult learners.

Keywords

online learning engagement adult education administration

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