Missing FiguresNew Teaching Methods for Non-Traditional AudiencesIt is becoming increasingly common to see older students, or non-traditional students (ages 24 and older), entering college campuses. “Non-traditional” students now make up 36% of the university population (Justice and Dornan, 1). Although some question the ability of older students to succeed in a college environment, research has shown that non-traditional students actually perform better than traditional students (ages 18-22). The significant differences between traditional and nontraditional students have raised the question of whether institutions need to modify their teaching methods to meet the needs of the nontraditional student. As the 23+ population continues to grow at colleges and universities, many feel that current methods are not intellectually challenging enough for these older students. Much of the research evidence concludes that institutions must respond to these differences in motivation and learning. This means that faculty may soon be challenged to develop more understanding-based approaches that will use strategies to explain and apply course material (Justice and Dornan, 7). This article will examine the unique characteristics that non-traditional students possess, compared to traditional students. . By highlighting factors such as motivation, coping skills, and learning styles, this article will illustrate the differences that nontraditional students possess in achieving their college education and why it is important for higher education to change current teaching methods. These characteristics will illustrate why it is important for universities to change current teaching methods to create appropriate learning… middle of paper… Morris, Emily A., Peggy R. Brooks, and James L. Maggio. “The Relationship Between Achievement Goal Orientation and Coping Style: Traditional and Nontraditional College Students.” March 2003. FindArticles by LookSmart. March 23, 2004. Monday, Leo A. “College Access for Nontraditional Students.” The Journal of Higher Education. November-December 1976, vol. 47.JSTOR. March 23, 2004. Richardson, John T. E., and Estelle King. “Adult Students in Higher Education: Burden or Boom?” The Journal of Higher Education. January-February 1998, vol. 69.JSTOR. March 23, 2004.Wolfgang, Mary E. and William D. Dowling. “Differences in the Motivation of Adult and Younger College Students.” The Journal of Higher Education. November-December 1981, vol. 52.JSTOR. March 23. 2004. .