Type of Proposal
Paper: Empirical Research
Abstract
The purpose of this exploratory case study was to consider how instructors can facilitate a safe and inclusive environment for adult learners in an online graduate program and to explore the potential benefits of such a learning space. Through a thematic analysis of the case study materials, three prominent themes emerged. The three themes were: a) seeking to engage through sharing life experiences, b) mindfulness-based reflective practice, and c) facilitating safe and inclusive spaces as a path to transformation. This study adds to current literature by validating the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment for adult learners in distance education programs. This study also provides guidance for adult educators who teach online, recommending meaningful ways to integrate adult learning theory into instructional practices in order to promote students’ sense of belonging, engagement, and persistence.
Keywords
distance adult education, intersectionality, instructional methods
Creative Commons License
This work is licensed under a Creative Commons Attribution-Noncommercial 4.0 License
Recommended Citation
Higgins, P. J.
(2024).
Safe spaces: Exploration of the transformative power of online graduate programs for adult learners.
Adult Education Research Conference.
https://newprairiepress.org/aerc/2024/papers/5
Included in
Adult and Continuing Education Commons, Educational Psychology Commons, Online and Distance Education Commons
Safe spaces: Exploration of the transformative power of online graduate programs for adult learners
The purpose of this exploratory case study was to consider how instructors can facilitate a safe and inclusive environment for adult learners in an online graduate program and to explore the potential benefits of such a learning space. Through a thematic analysis of the case study materials, three prominent themes emerged. The three themes were: a) seeking to engage through sharing life experiences, b) mindfulness-based reflective practice, and c) facilitating safe and inclusive spaces as a path to transformation. This study adds to current literature by validating the importance of creating a safe and inclusive environment for adult learners in distance education programs. This study also provides guidance for adult educators who teach online, recommending meaningful ways to integrate adult learning theory into instructional practices in order to promote students’ sense of belonging, engagement, and persistence.
