The spelling of "mature student" may seem straightforward, but it can cause some confusion when it comes to pronunciation. In IPA phonetic transcription, the word is spelled /məˈtjʊər ˈstjuːdənt/. The "mature" part is pronounced with a short "u" sound, as in "mud", followed by a "ch" sound and an "uh" vowel. The "student" part is pronounced with a long "u" sound, as in "queue", followed by a "d" sound and an "uh" vowel. It's important to get the pronunciation right when addressing or referring to adult learners.
A mature student refers to an individual who pursues higher education or academic studies at a later stage in life, typically beyond the traditional age range of students. The term "mature" in this context pertains to their age and signifies that they have reached adulthood or an advanced stage in life. Mature students are usually aged 25 or older, although definitions may slightly vary depending on institutions or regions.
Unlike younger students who typically enter higher education directly after completing secondary education, mature students often have distinct life experiences, responsibilities, and reasons for returning to education. They may have taken a break from studies to work, raise a family, or pursue other endeavors before deciding to enroll in a college or university. The motivation behind their return to education can stem from a desire for personal growth, career advancement, acquiring new skills, or a change in career path.
Mature students bring valuable perspectives and unique life experiences to the learning environment, enriching classroom discussions and interactions. They often possess a strong sense of independence, motivation, and a clear understanding of their educational objectives. Due to their prior experiences, mature students may approach their studies with a greater sense of purpose and determination.
Educational institutions typically offer programs or resources tailored to the needs of mature students, recognizing the specific challenges they might face in balancing their academic pursuits with other commitments such as work or family. These dedicated support systems make higher education more accessible for mature students and help them successfully navigate their educational journey.
The word "mature" originated from the Latin word "maturus", which means ripe, timely, or mature. It was adopted into Old French as "mature" and later entered Middle English as "mature". The term "student" traces back to the Latin word "studens", which means one who is eager or diligent. In the context of education, a student refers to an individual who is engaged in learning or receiving instruction.
The combination of these two terms gave rise to the phrase "mature student", referring to an individual who is older or more advanced in age compared to the typical age of students pursuing a particular level of education. This term is commonly used to identify individuals who choose to pursue higher education or return to education after a significant gap, usually after the age of 25.