The Nontraditional Learner's Guide to Success: Creating an Informal Support Network

This book investigates the influence of an informal support network on the growing population of nontraditional learners and explores the implications of this support network for learner persistence and success. Obviously, the end objective is success for the nontraditional learner. This success can manifest itself in the form of an intrinsic motivational purpose, for career advancement or continuing education. Whatever the reason, education is a precious gift and degree attainment should be encouraged, regardless of the learner's stage of life. Who should read this book? Nontraditional learners, instructors of nontraditional learners, the support networks, and the nontraditional learners' mentors, as well as, counselors who are working with adult learners, will benefit from the insights provided herein. In addition, it is my sincerest hope that this book can act as a guide to assist working adult learners who enter institutions of advanced learning later in life to achieve their goal of earning a degree. The book establishes a theoretical foundation based on an examination of current trends in education in general. The experiences of the nontraditional learner, both positive and negative, are introduced. The discussion of challenges facing the nontraditional learner as they pursue their college education is covered. A nontraditional learner reading this book can conduct a mini-assessment to determine if they have similar characteristics. The book further highlights some of these commonalities so that the reader can identify with the experience and determine what they need to do to succeed, and whether they will be successful in their educational journey. The book is concluded by creating recommendations to help the nontraditional learner to be able to develop the characteristics needed to succeed and overcome the challenges that they will face as they pursue their education.

Dr. R. Lee Viar IV earned a Ph.D. in Post-Secondary Adult Education and Training, M.B.A., and is currently pursuing a second Ph.D. in Organization and Management. He is an educator and published author with over ten years of university teaching experience at both undergraduate and graduate levels. As an adjunct professor, he teaches approximately sixty-six online courses each year at various universities, including traditional universities that offer online courses. He is affiliated with the graduate program in business specializing in management and marketing as well as adult education specializing in online instruction. He has won a number of awards for his contributions to the classroom as well as the continued success of his students. He also works as a marketing consultant, has served on a number of dissertation committees, and has served on faculty development and assessment panels as well as a Lead Business Faculty. In addition, he also is a course developer for the business and education curriculums. He lives in Maryland with his beautiful wife and five wonderful children and continues to write.