Колледж және университет студенттерінің ерекше тобы

Category of students at colleges and universities

A nontraditional student is a term originating in North America, that refers to a category of students at colleges and universities. The term usually involves age and social characteristics. Nontraditional students are contrasted with traditional students. The NCES estimated that 73% of all undergraduates in 1999–2000 have a nontraditional characteristic.

It is uncertain exactly how or when the term “nontraditional student” was first incorporated into educational language. However, it is thought that K. Patricia Cross is responsible for the phrase becoming the accepted and appropriate term to describe adult students. Scholars disagree on the exact definition of nontraditional. Modern defining characteristics usually include social traits and age, with most studies agreeing that undergraduates age 25 or older are classified as nontraditional. In the United States, gender was a defining characteristic of nontraditional students, with women particularly older women being viewed as unusual. But gender is no longer a defining characteristic of nontraditional students in the United States. The NCES divides tertiary educational institutions into three categories: public, private non profit, and private for profit (PFP). With regard to the age demographic of students enrolled in these institutions, the NCES uses three age categories: under 25, between 25 and 34, and 35 and older. According to its most recent publication, in a section called The Condition of Education 2013,"most nontraditional students are enrolled in PFP’s. In fact, for the fall enrollment in 2011, in four year PFP institutions 71% full time and 78% part time students were at least 25 years old or older. In two year PFP institutions, 52% full time and 61% part time students were also included in this 'nontraditional' category."

Nontraditional students frequently have different characteristics than traditional students, experience different barriers, and have different instructional and campus support needs than traditional students. While many institutions offer programs for nontraditional students and services in response to their specific needs, it is frequently observed that traditional higher education programs and policies are geared toward, and the outcome of, the previous era when traditional students were the main market for higher education. Institutional barriers most frequently identified in research include difficulty obtaining financial support, negative attitudes toward adult learners, a general lack of resources at times and places suitable to adult learners, and recognition of prior learning and academic credentials. Situational barriers most frequently experienced by adult nontraditional students typically include managing multiple conflicting responsibilities in addition to their studies (e. g., life and work responsibilities and roles), financial problems and limited financial aid options for nontraditional students, lack of adequate and affordable childcare services, and lack of support from others.

U. S. News & World Report, known for education ranking, published a guide to help nontraditional students navigate topics such as the application process, selecting the best fit college, and financial aid.