Emotions of Returning to Education

The emotions of adult learning and what can help.

First of all, well done on your return to education! I know firsthand how nerve-wracking and anxiety provoking it can be. I left education in 2007 and decided to return to complete a BSc and MSc in Psychology in 2016. To be honest, I found my BSc interesting, but very hard. Switching from descriptive to academic writing was extremely difficult, with my lecturer often expressing that my writing was "too descriptive" and "I should have done a degree in English". These comments did not bother me, but she was right.

Human's are complex. The thought of returning to education in 2023, with the birth of AI and Social Media, can fill even the most educated with fear - Imposter Syndrome anyone?! Any learner, regardless of age, will feel a variety of emotions throughout their studies, especially after returning from a long absence. Things have changed. I am hoping this post will help you gain an insight into what is completely natural to feel!

Anxiety and Nervousness:

The thought of returning to an academic environment after being away for a while can be intimidating. The fear of not fitting in, not understanding new technology or teaching methods and struggling to keep up with coursework might lead to anxiety. Despite the apprehension, there can also be excitement about the opportunity to learn new things, acquire new skills, and achieve personal goals. The prospect of personal growth and self-improvement can be motivating. Think about what you have achieved already and where you will be once you have completed your course.

Insecurity and Self-Doubt:

Adult learners may feel uncertain about their abilities, especially if they feel rusty in certain subjects or worry about their academic performance. They might compare themselves to younger students and feel inadequate. Depending on the class composition, adult learners may feel isolated or out of place if most of their peers are significantly younger. This feeling of not fitting in socially can affect their overall experience, but remember, you have a wealth of 'real-life experience' so you have skills your younger peers may not have. Work in collaboration so you can help each other.

The gap in education might lead to self-doubt, wondering if you are capable of successfully completing assignments, exams and coursework, but you ARE capable, so use the resources around you and don't be scared to ask for help.

Motivation:

Many returning adult learners are motivated by specific goals, such as career advancement or personal achievement. Use this motivation to get a sense of purpose and determination to succeed.

Adapt to challenges including using technology, such as online teaching platforms such as Teams, Google Classrooms, Weblearn, Turnitin, and new academic writing techniques that you may not have heard of for a while. These might pose challenges to someone who's been away from formal education for a while. Adjusting to new ways of learning could be frustrating initially but give it time and practice!

Other emotions and challenges:

Balancing studies with work, family and other responsibilities can create significant time management challenges. Adult learners might feel overwhelmed trying to juggle multiple commitments.

Developing a growth mindset allows returning adult learners to embrace the opportunity for personal growth and development. You may have a growth mindset, viewing challenges as learning experiences and setbacks as stepping stones toward improvement.

The pride and accomplishment you will feel when you start completing work and working with others after returning to education can empower adult learners by demonstrating that learning is a lifelong pursuit and age doesn't have to be a barrier to achieving academic goals. Overcoming the initial hurdles and successfully completing assignments or exams can lead to a sense of pride and accomplishment, boosting self-esteem and confidence.

Uncertainty about the Future:

Adult learners might ponder how returning to education will impact their career prospects and whether the investment of time, money and effort will pay off in the long run. If it is important to you then it is worth it. Often, the journey is where you will learn the most, so try and enjoy and sit through the hard times - they will pass.

GOOD LUCK!