Aspire program rises to first for measurable skill gain

Ohio University's Patton College of Education’s Aspire program achieved a remarkable feat, ranking first out of 51 Aspire programs across Ohio in measurable skill gains in fiscal year 2024. More than 74% of its students demonstrated significant progress by improving their Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE) scores, earning their GED, completing vocational training, or transitioning to post-secondary education.

"We are very proud that Ohio University ranked first in the measurable skill gain chart because it shows that our program is effective in its implementation and that most students walk away with success in hand," said Medea Loibl, director of the Aspire Program.

"Recognizing this achievement demonstrates how effective adult education is in driving transformation,” said Dr. Lisa Harrison, dean of the Patton College of Education. “Each skill gained opens new doors, empowering our students to redefine their paths and make lasting impacts in their communities and careers. We celebrate Medea Loibl and her team for this remarkable accomplishment.”

Adding to its most recent list of achievements, the Aspire program has also received the Chancellor's Award for Outstanding Student Performance for the second year in a row.

The Aspire program in Patton College’s Stevens Literacy Center has a long-standing commitment to adult learners in the region.  In 2018, The Stevens Literacy Center received the adult literacy grant from Aspire, making Ohio University the first four-year institution of higher education in the state to receive such funding.

What is the Aspire program?

The Aspire program, funded by the Ohio Department of Higher Education, offers free educational services to help adults throughout Ohio prepare for college, careers, and employment. Services include basic skills, GED preparation, English as a Second Language (ESL), career counseling, and job placement assistance. 

The Aspire program offers distinct educational paths including:

• GED Preparation: Offers ongoing enrollment for students seeking their high school equivalency, providing comprehensive support and instruction for the GED exam.
• Integrated Education and Training (IET): Focuses on practical skills development through a structured program combining adult basic education with vocational training. Students earn industry-recognized credentials and gain career-ready skills.
• Bridge Programming: Prepares students with day-one-readiness for postsecondary education and training.

Aspire's tailored approach to adult education

A key factor in the Aspire program’s success is its emphasis on personalized education. 

“Our team puts in tremendous effort to provide individualized services to each student,” said Loibl. “The onboarding process, combined with differentiated instruction, ensures that every student is given the tools they need to succeed.”

The Aspire program begins with students taking the Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE), a diagnostic tool used to assess their skills in reading, writing, and math. Based on these results, instructors tailor lessons to meet the individual learning needs of each student. Students also have access to online coursework that aligns with their skill levels, allowing for additional flexibility and engagement outside of class.

“When working with adult learners, it’s crucial that instruction is relevant to their goals and interests,” said Loibl. The program emphasizes a balance between self-directed learning and keeping students on track to achieve their educational objectives. The student-centered approach is key to fostering an environment where students take ownership of their learning journey.

Overcoming challenges and achieving success for adult learners

Aspire recognizes the unique challenges faced by adult learners and provides personalized support to help them overcome obstacles. Many students enter the program with limited educational backgrounds, financial difficulties, or personal barriers. The program's dedicated staff work closely with students to address these challenges and create a supportive learning environment.

Measuring success and tracking student progress

Aspire's commitment to rigorous student performance tracking is crucial for its success. The program measures skill gains in the following areas:

• TABE Progress: Improved scores on the Test of Adult Basic Education (TABE), a standardized assessment used to measure reading, writing, and math skills. 
• GED Attainment: Successful completion of the GED exam
• Industry Credentials: Earning industry-recognized certifications or credentials * Post-Secondary Enrollment: Transitioning to a college or career-technical program

Aspire utilizes the LACES database, the Literacy, Adult and Community Education System, a state-provided platform for tracking student progress and outcomes in various educational programs, to effectively monitor student performance. After completing 40 hours of instruction, students are reassessed using the TABE to measure their improvement.

Additionally, students can demonstrate skill gains by earning industry-recognized credentials through integrated education and training programs (IET). These programs combine adult basic education with workforce readiness and occupational skills training, preparing students for further education or employment.

Workforce development partnerships

Aspire has extended its impact beyond the classroom through partnerships with local employers to provide workforce education. In the past, the program collaborated with QuidelOrtho and Athens Mold and Machine to offer soft skills training and instruction on math and measurement tools for employees. These partnerships are designed to meet the upskilling needs of employers while empowering adult learners to advance in their careers. “Our program’s workplace education efforts are driven by the needs of local employers,” said Loibl. “We work closely with them to create customized training programs that fit their workforce development goals.”

The wider impact of adult education

Adult education is a powerful catalyst for positive change, extending its influence far beyond individual learners.

“We want to prepare our students not only for their next step in education but also for success in their careers and personal lives,” Loibl added. “Our ultimate goal is to uplift our community and serve as a connector between talent and training opportunities.”

By providing opportunities for skill development, civic engagement, and personal growth, adult education programs contribute significantly to the overall well-being of communities.

Economic development: Adult education plays an essential role in boosting local economies. Through vocational training and workforce preparation programs, it equips adults with the skills they need to secure better-paying jobs and increase their earning potential. This, in turn, contributes to reduced unemployment rates and increased economic stability.

Social and civic engagement: Adult education fosters a sense of belonging and active citizenship. By offering programs like citizenship test preparation and civics education, helps immigrants integrate into their communities and participate fully in civic life. Additionally, adult education creates opportunities for social interaction and community building, fostering a sense of connectedness and shared purpose.

Family and intergenerational impact: The benefits of adult education extend beyond the individual learner to their families and future generations. By improving parents' educational skills and providing family literacy programs, adult education can help break cycles of poverty and limited educational attainment.

Community partnerships: Adult education is often a collaborative effort involving a wide range of community partners. By working together, universities, community colleges, school districts, community centers, nonprofits, and businesses can create more comprehensive and effective programs that address the specific needs of their communities.

Addressing local needs: Adult education programs can be tailored to meet the unique challenges and opportunities of different communities. By offering targeted services like English language instruction or basic skills training, adult education can help address specific needs and improve the quality of life for all residents.