The report by Alison Kadlec, supported by Lumina Foundation, focuses on understanding the specific data needs of adult learners of color in higher education. Through qualitative research involving focus groups, the study explores how these learners perceive and utilize postsecondary data tools, emphasizing the necessity for data that is both relevant and reflective of their unique experiences and challenges.
Main Takeaways:
- Relevance of Data to Adult Learners of Color: Traditional metrics such as graduation rates and average earnings are less meaningful unless they specifically reflect the experiences of adult learners of color, particularly those balancing education with work and family responsibilities.
- Desire for Supportive Data: These learners prefer data that illustrates how institutions support their success, such as data on the availability of career counseling, flexibility of course offerings, and the presence of faculty and staff who share their racial or ethnic backgrounds.
- Cultural Competence in Data Presentation: The report stresses the importance of culturally competent methods in presenting data, suggesting that institutions must consider the cultural and emotional dimensions of data presentation to effectively engage adult learners of color.
- Institutional Mistrust and Data Transparency: There is a significant mistrust among these learners toward educational institutions, partly due to historical mistreatment. Transparent and honest data that addresses this mistrust can enhance engagement and trust.