An evaluation of online learning environments(OLE) on the adult at-risk population

Abstract

This paper deals with the evaluation of an Online Learning Environment(OLE) paradigm as it pertains to adult at-risk groups. Adult at-risk groups are classified as • Graduates of urban high schools • People who are being forced to work longer because of the change in retirement laws • The recent plethora of immigrants from 3rd world countries • People who have reentered the work force after years of child caring and/or elder care • People who reside in remote areas where educational and research opportunities are limited • Females OLE students tend to have trouble competing in an educational setting because • Many OLE students are older, have jobs, and families. • Students are interested in obtaining a degree for a better job or are retraining to retain employment with their present employer • Distance education often isolates the student. This isolation removes motivational factors that involving a peer group. Additionally distance education students are usually of very diverse backgrounds • Older students are generally not computer literate and thus have to conquer the course work and the delivery vehicle