Preconditions for post-employment learning: Preliminary results from ongoing research

Authors

  • Linda Salter Capella University, PhC

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.19173/irrodl.v12i1.888

Keywords:

locus of control, mature learners, preconditions, prior experience, self-efficacy

Abstract

This article describes the first phase of a two-phase, mixed-method study. The study, now in progress, explores how and to what extent willingness to engage in learning in mature adulthood is influenced by prior experiences and specific individual personality variables, such as perceived locus of control and degree of self-efficacy. Study participants in this phase are 20 active adults over the age of 50 who participate in various formal and informal programs at a YMCA in a suburb of Seattle, Washington. Preliminary results thus far are discussed with respect to how they may inform educators of mature adults in open education settings. A profile of the characteristics of mature adults likely to be engaged in learning activities is beginning to emerge. A larger sample of participants taken from the same population is now being studied to confirm or refute the value of this profile.

Author Biography

Linda Salter, Capella University, PhC

Linda Salter, Doctoral Learner, School of Education, Capella University The author’s mentor is Howard Jacobs, School of Education, Capella University, Minneapolis, MN. This article reports on an ongoing study being conducted in partial fulfillment of requirements for a doctoral degree in Education. Correspondence concerning this article should be addressed to Linda Salter, 994 165th Ave SE, Bellevue, WA 98008. E-mail: salterl@comcast.net

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Published

2011-01-31

How to Cite

Salter, L. (2011). Preconditions for post-employment learning: Preliminary results from ongoing research. The International Review of Research in Open and Distributed Learning, 12(1), 24–41. https://doi.org/10.19173/irrodl.v12i1.888

Issue

Vol. 12 No. 1 (2011): Special Issue - Prior, Experiential and Informal Learning in the Age of Information and Communication Technologies

Section

Research Articles

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