How to overcome isolation among distance learners.(Thomas Edison State College's strategy)

Online education opens college doors for adult women, who often are tied to nonstandard schedules by children and employers. Partners and jobs keep them place-bound, perhaps far from a suitable campus. The academic "third shift" starts at the computer after the kids go to bed. Technology brings a degree within sight for adults who couldn't pursue one otherwise.

Compared with campus-based learning, the downside is isolation. Women with relational learning styles often don't thrive as impersonal blips on the screen. But Thomas Edison State College NJ is personalizing student-friendly distance learning, according to vice-provost for learner services Susan Davenport. She spoke at the 18th annual University of Nebraska's Women in Educational Leadership conference in September.

Founded in 1972 to offer adults flexible educational opportunities outside the classroom, the college is named for New Jersey inventor Thomas Edison, who attended school for only three months. Forbes Magazine identified the college as one of the nation's top 20 in the use of technology to extend learning opportunities for adults, who can earn associate's, bachelor's or master's degrees.

Edison students live in every state and more than 80 countries. Many are in the military and 45% are women. Most have some prior college credit. They're self-motivated, independent adults with an average age of 36.

What adult learners want

Adult students juggle multiple demands and face countless obstacles. They don't want to spend hours trying to master the technology. Grounded in their communities, they don't look to college for a social life.

What they want is a chance to connect easily, seamlessly and in real time. They want access to instructors and students for personalized feedback and support. They want straight answers to their questions.