Nontraditional Students and Credit for Prior Learning—Analytical Thinking, Clout, Drives, and Motives

Abstract

This study examined nontraditional students using linguistic inquiry and word count (LIWC) of their reflective writing assignments. Participants included 364 adult students enrolled in a degree completion program. Data comprised a multiweek reflective writing assignment and demographic data, linguistically and statistically analyzed. The study found that nontraditional students have low clout, a high drive for achievement, and a high motive of allure. In addition, students participating in credit for prior learning (CPL), also referred to as prior learning assessment (PLA), have statistically higher analytical thinking, drive for affiliation, and reward as motive. These results offer implications for prospective and nontraditional students, for academic advisors and instructors, and for higher education institutions and CPL programs.