The structure and budget for a proposed center for nontraditional learning are delineated. Establishment of sponsored and unsponsored divisions is advocated. The center would help students determine life goals, learning goals, and learning styles. Development of a credentialing procedure for unsponsored learning is described. (Author/LBH)

To determine the role of student writing in nontraditional life/experience credentialing programs, a questionnaire was compiled and results surveyed from nearly 50 such programs. Most respondents agreed that writing is a vital part of the credentialing process but many felt it should not be overstressed. The questionnaire is appended. (Author/LBH)

The ten elements of nontraditional study are carefully examined to provide an overview of their evolution and their impact on access to higher education. Discussed are degree-granting authority, competence as a basis for awarding degrees, adult students, experiential learning, specialized services, residence, and educational technology.…

Nontraditional education credits can be earned in many ways. Some methods of assessing learning for credit are objective, such as standardized texts; others are more objective, such as a review of life experiences. Options for earning a high school diploma without spending 4 years in a classroom are as follows: General Educational Development…

A step-by-step guide for seeking college credit for prior learning is presented in this Indiana University (IU) student handbook. The External Degree Program in General Studies at Indiana University at South Bend awards college credit toward the Associate and/or Bachelors of General Studies degree for knowledge and understanding gained through…

Evaluation of prior learning for college credit towards a general studies degree is discussed in this handbook for faculty evaluators. It is suggested that the major responsibility of the evaluator is to determine if prior learning is college level and how many credits should be awarded. Credit toward the general studies degree is awarded only for…

Fourteen papers on adult education are presented from the George Mason University (Virginia) first annual conference on nontraditional, interdisciplinary, and external degree programs. The papers and authors include: "The American Experiential Learning Tradition: Educating the Whole Person" (Walter Raubicheck); "Experience,…

A comprehensive study was undertaken of the effectiveness of an external degree program implemented in Illinois to meet the needs of adult students studying for the bachelor's degree. The rationale, history, structure, administration, and governance of the statewide program offered through five universities are described. The majority of students…

A questionnaire was administered to determine the needs of external degree students in the South Bend, Indiana University External Degree Program. The results (48% response rate) were compared with those of an earlier study with Northwestern New York postsecondary students. It was found that 50% of South Bend students, as compared to 27% of the…

Through a combination of prior coursework, contract learning, credit for experience, standardized tests, and other methods of evaluating prior learning, the Empire State College (New York) allows adults to complete undergraduate degree requirements. The nonresidential institution serves students throughout the state, with faculty in over 40…

A study was undertaken for the Council on Postsecondary Accreditation to develop evaluative criteria and procedures for the accreditation of nontraditional education. The summary report presents the major activities and findings of the study. The Introduction gives its history and background and outlines its scope, including the goals,…

This bulletin focuses on liberal education for adults and includes an article on the topic and descriptions of seven institutional approaches. In "Creating Successful Liberal Education Programs for Adults," Carol Stoel points out that many adults are seeking a greater understanding of themselves and their world through liberal education…

These proceedings included the following papers: "The Language of Interdisciplinary Programs or 'What Do You Mean By That?'" (Ezzell, Turner); "When Mothers Become Students: Impact on Children and the Family System" (Burns, Gabrick); "Multi-Discipline Theorizing Meets the Blackboard: The Evolving Discourse Community"…

Nontraditional methods of qualifying for a college degree are described in this student guide to off-campus study and examination. The three external degree institutions in the United States that offer these programs are discussed. They include: Regents External Degree Program of the University of the State of New York; Thomas A. Edison College of…

Problems and barriers that women often face when re-entering the higher educational system are identified, and ways in which institutions can be more responsive to re-entry students are suggested. A wide range of possible actions is included so that institutions can pursue those most appropriate to their individual circumstances. Definitions are…