Sample Solution

This research report adopted a qualitative approach to collect data of concerns faced by adult learners who are returning to higher education. The very strength of qualitative conversation is its investigational detail. The researchers used open ended questions in an interview process to collect data and with the use of thematic analysis, identify themes within the results, leading to knowledge of the main concern.

Introduction
Over the past 20 years, student numbers have almost doubled. However, the number of mature students in both full and part time courses have declined drastically.
Dropping by more than 60% since 2010, a very concerning problem was evident.

At the start of their studies, an individual is considered a mature student if they are aged 21 or over. 22 years is the average age a student finishes their studies. Moreover, when starting their courses, mature students aged over 40 is at a low percentage of just 10%.
(Butcher, 2017). It is considered that the preferred way of referring to students in today’s society is as learners.