Extension and Continuing Education: A Revitalized Dimension of Higher Education?

Overview & Synopsis

In recent years the American higher education enterprise has made a dramatic effort to attract the adult student. This effort has largely been based on economic necessity, since the numbers of traditionally aged college students (18-22) have fallen. Extension and continuing education for adult students is not completely new to higher education, having been introduced in this country in the 1870s by England's Cambridge University, although in recent years many institutions are becoming involved for the first time. In most instances, extension and continuing education have been less than full partners in the university community. The recent emphasis on the parttime adult student tends to suggest that continuing education is closer to reaching its potential than ever before. However, complete fruition is not yet in sight. Therefore, it is imperative that continuing education personnel continue to push for total university support of their program in order to maximize benefits for their constituents and themselves. (KC)