ABSTRACT
Over the past several decades interest in providing appropriate academic support to adult learners has grown, as reflected both in research literature and programmatic descriptions. This chapter begins with a focus on approaches to academic advising, selected findings on the academic advising needs and preferences of adult learners, and strategies recommended for advising adults. It also looks at the potential benefits of more comprehensive approaches to advising, often taking a team approach. Next, the chapter moves on to discuss academic support strategies beyond academic advising, suggesting there is a place for “classic” strategies like mentoring, math tutoring, and writing centers, as well as for more contemporary approaches such as academic coaching and supplemental instruction. Descriptions of programs providing academic support to specific adult learner populations such as adult learners of color, first-generation college students, and adults transitioning to college from GED and adult ESOL are also presented. Finally, the chapter examines how the growing number of adult students has led library professionals to consider how libraries can equitably provide academic support for students studying on-campus, off-campus or at a distance, as well as for student parents.
