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An increasing number of "adult" learners are going back to school. The cultural, economic, and educational climate is such that schooling is no longer the domain of the "traditional" age student. Rather, adults are jumping back into the scholastic pool for second careers, job training, or simply to better themselves through the acquisition of interesting knowledge. Still, this does not mean that all adults are supremely confident in their decision. They may be excited about the possibility of returning to school, but they may also have a few anxieties. Here are a few things that they may be feeling.

Many years ago

Some adults may be concerned because they have not been to school in many years. Just like a former athlete who has not exercising in years, they may feel academically out of shape. If they went to school in the past, they may fear that things have changed too much. Or, if they never went to school they may be generally unsure of what to expect. After all, most people expect that school is going to be a unique experience, which may or may not take some major adjustments.

Learning styles

Another anxiety may revolve around learning styles. Some adult learners may be used to "old school" methods that included a lot of lecture, chalkboards, and heavy textbooks. They may be unsure about reconfigured classroom seats, group discussions, and particular types of projects. Again, they may have been a successful profession in their field for many years, but this may be a new type of challenge for them, which can lead to some worry and anxiety.

Technology

Adult learners may also worry about the increased use of technology. They may be used to looking for books in the library rather than searching for articles online. In addition, they may be used to writing down notes rather than taking them on a laptop. Their experience with presentations may not include PowerPoint, or some kind of motion graphics. Overall, the use of technology to a novice may be very intimidating if they are not used to computers, projectors, jump drives, and the Internet.

Age gap

Even though adult learners are increasingly going back to school, there are still people of younger years going as well. This can pose a concern for the adult learner as they may worry about relating to their classmates or "fitting in" if they try to interact with people outside of class. It doesn't take a brilliant person to figure out that certain age groups like to hang out with their own, particular younger groups. Therefore, the older student may worry that they are going to be somewhat of an outsider.

Speaking up

Finally, the adult learner may worry about talking in class or sharing their viewpoints. This can be a particular anxiety if they hear a few of their fellow classmates share thoughts that do not reflect the viewpoints of the adult learner. If the adult learner already feels like a bit of an outsider, they may be all the more hesitant to raise their hand and contribute their perspective and experience.

Overall, some anxieties experienced by adult learners are legitimate concerns, while others are not much different than the typical new students. Everyone has to adjust to a new environment, but plenty of adult learners have adapted just fine. They may not fit in exactly with certain demographics, but oftentimes their work ethic, experience, and savvy about life provides them with enough tools to flourish in education.

Learn more about this author, Todd Pheifer.
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