In the report, the authors offer suggestions to improve data, develop more robust or integrated financial aid and employment policies, and tailor academic programs in ways that would strengthen how post-traditional learners are served.
Improving data:
• At the national level, build on ongoing improvements to the Integrated Postsecondary Education Data System that allow for a better understanding of college-going patterns of post-traditional learners.
• At the state level, leverage Statewide Longitudinal Data Systems to better understand the relationship between post-traditional learners’ learning journeys and outcomes.
Developing policies:
• Continue to invest in the Pell Grant Program in ways that make college more affordable for post-traditional learners.
• Better align federal financial aid and unemployment insurance policies.
• Tap into new research on the Federal Work Study Program to explore ways to better serve post-traditional learners.
Tailoring academic programs:
• Acknowledge learning that occurs outside higher education.
• Embrace systems and consortia.
• Use institutional data, policies, and systems to prescribe the right delivery models and services.
• Create better engagement between higher education and the workforce.
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