Transition from Abe to College: the Journey of Adult Basic Education English Learners from Non-credit to Credit Programs

This phenomenological study examined the transition of a group of adult English language learners from an Adult Basic Education program to a community college. The purpose of the study was to gain a deeper understanding of the driving forces of Adult Basic Education English language learners who had successfully transitioned from a non-credit Adult Basic Education program to community college degree programs. The study was guided by an overall question: What is the experience like for ABE ESL students who transition to community college degree programs? The data collection for this study included focus group and in-depth individual interviews. The result of this study suggested that Adult Basic Education English language learners? transition to community college degree programs were more successful when the students felt a sense of caring through supporting services.