Adult Education Quarterly is a leading peer-reviewed journal dedicated to advancing the field of adult education through original research, theoretical developments, and practical applications. Published by SAGE Publications since 1951, it serves scholars, practitioners, and policymakers interested in lifelong learning, professional development, and educational innovations for adults. The journal's rigorous editorial process ensures high-quality publications that influence both academic discourse and real-world practices.

Researchers value Adult Education Quarterly for its interdisciplinary approach, bridging education with sociology, psychology, and organizational studies. Its commitment to diverse methodologies—from qualitative case studies to quantitative analyses—makes it a versatile platform for exploring topics like workplace learning, community education, and digital literacies in adulthood. With a focus on equity and inclusion, the journal highlights underrepresented voices and global perspectives on adult education challenges.

The publication's history reflects its evolution from Adult Education in 1950 to its current form in 1981, adapting to societal shifts such as technological advancements and demographic changes. Today, it boasts a strong reputation, evidenced by its inclusion in major indexing services and a dedicated readership worldwide. Submitting to Adult Education Quarterly means contributing to a legacy of transformative scholarship that shapes educational policies and practices.

For those navigating academic careers, publishing here enhances visibility and credibility. The journal's hybrid open access model allows authors to reach broader audiences while maintaining traditional subscription benefits. As adult education grows in importance amid lifelong learning demands, Adult Education Quarterly remains at the forefront, fostering dialogue on critical issues like skill development in aging populations and inclusive teaching strategies.

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Overview & History

Adult Education Quarterly, formerly known as Adult Education, was established in 1950 by the American Association for Adult and Continuing Education. It transitioned to its current title in 1981 to better reflect its expanded scope. Published quarterly by SAGE Publications, the journal has chronicled the field's growth from post-war retraining programs to contemporary digital and inclusive learning paradigms.

Over seven decades, it has published seminal works on andragogy, self-directed learning, and transformative education. Key milestones include special issues on globalization in adult education (2005) and technology integration (2015). Today, it maintains a circulation of over 1,500 institutions globally, solidifying its role as a cornerstone in education scholarship.

Scope and Disciplines Covered

Adult Education Quarterly encompasses research on all facets of adult and continuing education, emphasizing theoretical, empirical, and applied studies. It welcomes manuscripts on teaching methods, program evaluation, policy analysis, and learner motivation in non-traditional settings.

Key Journal Metrics

These metrics underscore the journal's influence, with steady growth in citations reflecting its relevance in education research.

Indexing and Abstracting

Adult Education Quarterly is indexed in prestigious databases, ensuring wide discoverability. It appears in Web of Science (Social Sciences Citation Index), Scopus, ERIC, PsycINFO, and Education Source. These listings facilitate access for researchers worldwide, enhancing citation potential. For full visibility, visit the official journal homepage or search in Scopus.

Publication Model and Fees

As a hybrid journal, Adult Education Quarterly offers both subscription-based and open access options. Traditional publication is free for authors, with articles accessible via institutional subscriptions. For open access, the Article Processing Charge (APC) is $3,000, waivable for corresponding authors from low-income countries per SAGE's policy. Check Sherpa/RoMEO for archiving rights, which support green open access.

Submission Process and Guidelines

Manuscripts are submitted online via SAGE's ScholarOne platform. Guidelines require 6,000-8,000 words, APA style, and blind review. Emphasize originality, methodological rigor, and implications for adult education. Initial decisions take 4-6 weeks, with revisions possible. Detailed instructions are on the journal site.

Editorial Board Highlights

The board comprises experts from leading institutions like the University of Georgia and Penn State. Editor-in-Chief Dr. Elizabeth J. Tisdell oversees a diverse team ensuring balanced, high-quality reviews. Members specialize in international adult education and critical pedagogy, bringing global insights.

Why Publish in Adult Education Quarterly?

Publishing here elevates your profile in education academia, with opportunities for citations and networking. Its focus on practical applications appeals to interdisciplinary audiences, while SAGE's marketing amplifies reach. For career advancement, consider Rate My Professor to build your teaching reputation alongside research.

Comparison with Similar Journals

Adult Education Quarterly excels in U.S.-centric yet global adult education research, offering higher impact than peers.

Researcher Tips for Successful Submission

Align your work with current calls, such as equity in adult learning. Use clear abstracts and robust data. Engage with recent issues for literature gaps. Track academic calendar events for deadlines. Revise based on feedback to boost acceptance odds.

Additional internal links: Explore tenure-track faculty positions, PhD programs in education, education conferences, scholarship opportunities, adjunct instructor roles, online education jobs, education policy resources, lifelong learning programs.