Public Viewpoint: Examining education disruption, enrollment plans, and advice

Posted by Strada Education Network on May 26, 2020

After weeks of impact to Americans’ emotional and economic well-being because of COVID-19, many are beginning to consider what will come next in their lives. For millions of them, those plans include decisions about education and training. But what is happening to their current education and future plans? Where and when do they expect to enroll? What kind of programs do they want? And where are they turning for advice on their choices?

Last week’s Strada Public Viewpoint: COVID-19 Work and Education Survey  examines changes in Americans’ current education and future plans, including expectations about enrollment in education or training.

Responses from more than 8,000 adults now are included in this survey, updated weekly and designed to track the impact of the pandemic on American lives, work, and education. Its intent is to provide insights to the education and training providers, policymakers, employers, and individual Americans who are navigating the crisis.

Key Findings

• Overall, 34 percent of American adults (ages 18 to 64) have canceled or changed education plans.
• While young adults were the most likely to cancel or change their plans, when those ages 25 to 44 did alter their plans, they were more likely to cancel or delay their education as opposed to making other changes such as a reduction in course hours or change of school.
• Among those who are not currently enrolled, Americans ages 25 to 44 are just as likely to start a new program in the next six months as those ages 18 to 24.
• Those with postsecondary degrees or credentials are more likely to enroll in all types of education than those without postsecondary degrees or credentials.
• Families are ranked as the most valuable source of advice about education or training for those considering enrolling.

Resources

• View charts and analysis of important learnings.
• Download last week’s report, including verbatim questions and results.