What is Sense of Self

In addition to their roles as a students, nontraditional adult learners also hold other life roles, such as employees and parents. These learners are less likely to identify as “student,” instead placing emphasis on their personal and social roles within their families, businesses, and community. This role dissonance can affect course satisfaction, a sense of belonging, and persistence, particularly in female learners. This chapter examines the educational consequences of simultaneously maintaining multiple life roles and how institutions can support these students in order to aid in their success. While these roles often increase stress in the nontraditional learner, they also serve to motivate them.