Affiliation:
1. Empire State College, SUNY, USA
2. Empire State University, SUNY, USA
Abstract
With the rising cost of inflation, adults are considering returning to school. Yet, the family-work balance, cost of living, and prices of education create barriers for most, especially diverse adults in low-socioeconomic areas, English language learners (ELLs), and those labeled with a disability. As education has taken the lead in online spaces, barriers still have been overlooked to provide equitable and accessible educational platforms for adults. As motivation for a promising future drives non-traditional minority adult learners (NMALs) to return to school, education must be convenient, cost-effective, and inclusive. Furthermore, advancing technology and digital tools leave both educators and adult learners at a disadvantage. By incorporating professional development, fair access to technology, and WOW practices into online learning environments, barriers will be eliminated for NMALs allowing for systemic equity in online learning platforms.
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