by John Cowley

Created on: November 21, 2008   Last Updated: November 22, 2008

Most educators would agree that adults in general make very good students. However, a few adult students start well and are full of initial enthusiasm but they fail to stay the course which is frustrating for them and disappointing for the course organizers. As a writer with thirty years plus experience of writing for a range of adult requirements from general interest to university post graduate level, I suggest that prospective students follow a step by step process of self evaluation before enrolling for any course. Even before you begin this step by step process it is worth finding out how one qualifies as an 'adult' student and what benefits or drawbacks accompany this particular designation. Distance Education Colleges and Universities frequently have quite different criteria for students to qualify as adult students and their fee structures may vary widely. Don't be persuaded to undertake courses because the sales pitch sounds good. I tend to be very suspicious of institutions which 'guarantee' success.

Most adults succeed because they have a deep and genuine interest in their intended area of study. I suggest the first step is to ask yourself how long you have been interested in your proposed area of study. If the answer is anything much less than three years there is always the possibility that your interest will wane before you complete the course. You may be the exception to this general 'rule' but be aware that you would be trying to beat the odds. Motivation is the key and this may come from more than a genuine interest. Financial rewards or career enhancement can replace genuine interest and provide the stimulus to persevere and succeed, but 'perseverance' it may well prove to be.

The second step concerns the entry level of education required to commence the particular area of study you are interested in. It is well worth starting at a lower level than you 'think' you could manage and gradually working your way up. As a life long student who already has a PhD I used to fall into the trap of underestimating the level of courses offered at an undergraduate level, only to find myself somewhat embarrassed by the work involved in catching up with all the changes that had occurred in the particular field since I first graduated. Languages are definitely not my forte and primary school level French would probably prove quite a challenge for me. I think I would have to pass on the idea!

The third step concerns the amount of time you think you have available

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