Clearning Up the Confusion – The Difference Between Adult and Continuing Education

Many people confuse the terms adult education and continuing education. People who attend a college course to further their career often refer to their class as an adult education course, while others will refer to their GED class as a continuing education course. The thing is adult education and continuing education are two separate courses that teach completely different topics and concepts.

To gain a better understanding for what adult and continuing education really is, here’s a look at the two definitions.

What is Adult Education?

Adult education is the term that is used to describe classes and courses that teach basic remedial concepts. Adult education is intended for adults who have not received their high school diploma or GED, and need to take courses that can help them get these.

What is Continuing Education?

Continuing education if any course or class that is used for the sole purpose of furthering an adult education or career. These classes can be anything from college classes, vocational classes, skill refining courses, or even basic courses that teach a hobby or a craft.

Why the Confusion in Word Usage?

Many people are confused about why the terms are so confusing for many people. The terms adult education and continuing education can be confusing because they both refer to classes that are designed and taught to adults. It can also be confusing because both classes are typically offered at the local community college or a local university which can increase the confusion.

Adult education and continuing education are two different words and terms. Understanding their definitions can help you clear up any confusion you may have.

Online Classes Vs. Traditional College Classes

Distance education

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One of the most important decisions a college student will face is whether or not to take online classes. Online classes are being offered at a number of colleges all across the country. This new classroom option requires students to choose between taking their classes in a brick and mortar classroom or attending class in an online setting.

Before making the decision on whether to take classes in a brick and mortar setting or to attend them online, you should weigh the pros and cons of both. Here’s a look at the pros and cons of online classes vs. traditional classes.

Cost Per Credit Hour

Online college classes can cost more per credit hour than a regular, traditional college. However, this seems to be changing as online classes and college become more and more popular. Make sure you shop around and compare how much each class costs.

Flexibility of Schedule

Traditional college classes require that you attend a class at a set time and oftentimes attendance plays into your grade. Online classes allow you to log in and learn at your own pace and time. Attendance to online classes may or may not factor into your grade it depends on the school and teacher.

Hands-On Help

If you need help in your classes a traditional college class may offer you more resources to use than an online college class. Traditional college classes allow you to meet with the professor one-on-one and take advantage of tutoring sessions, while online college classes do not offer these resources.

These are the pros and cons of both online and traditional college classes.

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