Semester
Spring
Date of Graduation
2014
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Type
EdD
College
College of Education and Human Services
Department
Learning Sciences and Human Development
Committee Chair
Donna Breault
Committee Co-Chair
Malayna Bernstein
Committee Member
George Brelsford
Committee Member
Sharon Hayes
Committee Member
Samuel Stack
Abstract
Nontraditional students make up a larger population at community colleges than their traditional counterparts making this study a necessity to further explore their experience (American Association of Community Colleges, 2013). To better understand this population, a phenomenological approach was taken with an emphasis on a social constructivism framework. This qualitative study utilized Seidman's (2013) three step interviewing process with the aid of photographs taken by the participants to elicit in-depth interview responses. Moustakas' (1994) modified Stevick-Colaizzi-Keen Method of Analysis of Phenomenological Data was used in this study. Four themes emerged from participant's photographs and interviews: motivation, helpful faculty/staff, external responsibilities, and past educational experiences. Looking through the lens of an individual's educational experience provides a critical understanding of realities that can potentially impact policy.
Recommended Citation
Tuel, Alexander D., "The Nontraditional Community College Student: A Phenomenological Approach to the Educational Experience" (2014). Graduate Theses, Dissertations, and Problem Reports. 295.
https://researchrepository.wvu.edu/etd/295