Michigan has a Sixty by 30 goal for residents to attain at least 60 college credits by the age of 30 and increase the number of working-age adults with a skill certificate or college degree to 60% by 2030.  Adult learners have unique characteristics and require different supports than traditional students. The Michigan eLibrary (MeL) provides resources and support for adult learners and educators at all stages of the journey toward Sixty by 30.

Support and Practice for Adult Learners

The High School Equivalency Center from EBSCO LearningExpress can help students be sure they are ready for the GED exam and build their basic skills with microlessons and tutorials in reading, writing, grammar, vocabulary and spelling, and math. The GED practice exams are available in both English and Spanish.

Professional Learning for Adult Education Staff

Teachers of adult learners can keep up to date in their field with publications in Education Source. A recent study in Adult Education Quarterly, "Teacher Effectiveness in Adult Education: The Relationship Between Teacher Characteristics and Student Test Gains and Transitions Into Postsecondary Education," focuses on the attributes of adult education teachers that are most beneficial to learners. "Students Take the Lead: Promoting Diversity and Inclusion in Adult Education Through Ambassador Training" from COABE Journal: The Resource for Adult Education details a leadership development program that focuses on student experiences to create a learning environment where students are more successful.

College Preparation and Success

The Michigan Reconnect initiative offers support to make Sixty by 30 a reality. Learners can also count on MeL to help them prepare for college and career success. College Success Skills from EBSCO LearningExpress provides tutorials to help students with a range of skills from becoming more organized to setting goals. The Career Exploration Center can help students discover more about a wide range of careers. When students are ready to study for certification exams, the Career Preparation Center has tutorials and practice tests.

How can libraries help?

People come to libraries seeking information. We can help them find the MeL eResources to aid them in their education journey. Ideas include:

• Creating flyers, social media and newsletter content, bulletin boards, and brochures to promote MeL to patrons and local organizations that have interest in adult education and workforce development. There are helpful resources available.
• Partner with MichiganWorks!, adult education providers, school districts, and community colleges to host educational events that highlight the MeL eResources

With the support of their local library, the eResources from MeL such as EBSCO LearningExpress and Education Source can help learners achieve their goals.

If you have any MeL eResources questions or issues, contact [email protected] for help.