Using Time-line Methodology for Finding Adult Student College Selection Information Behaviors: An Exploratory Study of the Methodology. ASHE Annual Meeting Paper.

This exploratory study examined the college search processes of 25 non-traditional adult students at two central New York State community colleges. Using a modified time-line interview, a method developed in communication and information sciences, the researchers found that the college student's choice process was significantly different for the nontraditional students than demonstrated in the traditional models. Among the frequently mentioned influences in college choice by adult students was cost and location. The college selection process was also found to be quite brief; most deliberations centered around the actual act of returning to school. The results of the study suggested that the time-line interview methodology was successful in eliciting the college selection process from these students. Contains 9 references. (GLR)