An Examination of College and Career Readiness in Adult Education Programs in South Carolina

This study examined the college and career efforts of adult education programs in South Carolina. Using a survey developed by the National Resource Center "Exploring College and Career Readiness in South Carolina Secondary Schools", adult education directors were surveyed. The survey instrument was adapted to include adult education programs in South Carolina, resulting in a twenty--two--question survey administered to adult education program directors across the state. The study was based on the perspectives of David Conley and Malcolm Knowles regarding college and career readiness and adult education. The college and career efforts were broadly categorized into Initiatives, Objectives, and Partnerships. Quantitative statistical procedures were employed, with findings presented through Descriptive Statistics utilizing Cronbach's Alpha Measure of Reliability. The survey yielded findings that adult education programs in South Carolina offer varying instruction and training to prepare adult learners for the future; however, inconsistencies exist across these efforts. The study concluded with a need for continued dialogue of adult education, particularly in the context of college and career readiness. Finally, it highlighted the significance of addressing the needs of an often-underserved population. It called for further research to enhance the success rates of adult learners in both higher education and their chosen career paths. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]