Adult education is a privilege for some, and a given for others. In either case, the importance of setting goals applies.
Studying as an adult affords little time that a teenager can splurge on relaxation and socialization. An adult is likely to be working and studying at the same time. He is likely to have family commitments that include having to look after aged parents and children.
Time and finance wise, an adult continuing his education will not have as much freedom and money to splurge on the trivia of life. setting goals for adult education is thus as important as making the decision to embark on adult education.
Without goals, it is as good as not having an aim or a direction to move in.
Setting goals for the education itself.
Be in the know of what subject(s) to study that will equip for the workforce instead of some whim and fancy of the moment. It is also good to have an education that matches interests and potential rather than financial goals.
Knowing the right duration and being prepared for possible extension of the duration due to unforeseen circumstances are also wise moves.
Setting financial goals before embarking on studies.
Education is not a cheap entity these days. Be proactive. Work out finances for both studies and living expenses of dependents before signing up for any courses before risking debts in the course of studies.
It is not good to milk the spouse dry to support the other through adult education.
Being determined to complete within a defined period of time.
The timeline is a difficult goal to determine. Without pre-determining the period of studies, it is unlikely that any adult education would be completed.
Life just has too many distractions, and it is difficult to balance adult education with numerous other commitments such as family, rest and relaxation and household chores.
Determining how far the education should go.
- Is it a series of courses leading to a diploma, a degree or a master in education?
- Will the course of adult education be an end to itself?
- Would there be sufficient finances and insurance to ensure the continuity and acceptable completion of the education?
- What is the course of action that will be taken if unfortunate events, expected or unforeseen, occur such that it is difficult to complete the selected studies?
It is a waste of time, energy and finance to begin something that is never going to be accomplished. The importance of setting goals for adult education can never be undermined.