Date of Award
8-22-2022
Type
Dissertation
First Advisor
Jennifer M Lovelace
Second Advisor
Richard Rogers
Third Advisor
Aaron "Chip" Reese
Abstract
This qualitative case study seeks to examine older adult learners' views toward technology use and their motivation, needs, and experiences while enrolled in the eMajor online Organizational Leadership bachelor's degree program offered by the University System of Georgia (USG). The research will investigate what motivates students to enroll in and advance through a degree program and their present technological competencies in relation to online learning management systems. The case study will also strive to identify the demands of older adult learners and the influence online learning has on their drive for program completion. Qualitative data were collected from twelve older adult learners, 45 years of age and older, from one eMajor collaborative program at three partner University System of Georgia institutions through semistructured virtual interviews. The four themes that emerged from the interviews, program, degree, instructor influence, technology, online learning, and needs and experiences helped answer the guiding research questions. The study's results revealed how older adult learners perceive the use of technology in higher education to increase academic achievement, learning comprehension, and course tasks. The current study sought to further assist higher education administrators and leaders understand older adult learners' needs and motivators and how to better support these learners in an online environment
Recommended Citation
Hayes, Jennifer Angela, "A Case Study Exploring the Motivating Factors and Needs That Influence Older Adult Learners’ Decisions to Enroll and Persist in One University System of Georgia eMajor Collaborative Program" (2022). Theses and Dissertations. 475.
https://csuepress.columbusstate.edu/theses_dissertations/475
