Adult Learning & Development Masters Program
Comprehensive Examination Review Guide
The examination is a three and one half hour exam composed of two parts that address different
courses in the program. You are required to answer two questions from Part I and two questions
from Part II.
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Tips for preparing and taking the exam
Ask colleagues to join you in the study group to help prepare for the exam.
Look through your class notes, texts, and other materials from the various classes in the
program. Think of areas emphasized in class, areas of importance or interest from each
class. Exam questions will come directly from the material in your classes.
As you prepare for and when you take the exam, think through your answers, outline
them (for your use only), then write a cohesive answer. Write in complete sentences.
Good grammar, proper punctuation, spelling, sentence structure, and paragraphing will
increase the value of your answer.
Multiple sources of information should be cited when possible, and the integration and
application of source material is essential to securing a top score.
Where the meaning of the question is in doubt, it is helpful to state your interpretation of
the question and to indicate conditions that may clarify your response.
Do not write your name on the blue books.
Your CSU ID number will identify your answers – Place your CSU ID number on all
blue books you turn in.
Use a separate blue book for each question.
If you use a blue book for outlines or other notes, please mark this book as “scrap
material” so as not to confuse the readers.
Comprehensive Exam: Possible courses covered in each section of the exam
Part II:
Part I:
ALD 607
ALD 605
ALD 663
ALD 645
CNS 624
ALD 665
ALD 606
EDB 601
ALD 664
CNS 622
ALD 631
ALD 646
ALD 700
Remember: You choose two questions from each part to answer
Sample Questions:
1. You will address this scenario: A friend you have not seen for several years invites you
to lunch. The friend asks you what you are doing with yourself these days. You tell the
friend that you are getting your Master’s in Adult Learning and Development (Adult
Education) from Cleveland State University. Of course, the friend has not clue about this
program and asks you to explain these questions:
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 What is adult education?
 What are the career paths for someone who wants to teach adults?
 You do not need to be certified in order to teach adults, why then are you getting a
degree in adult education?
2. Describe the distinction between the way adults learn and the way children learn utilizing
your understanding of adult development theory and/or adult learning theory.
3. You are interviewing for the position of Human Resource Manager in a medium size
firm. The interview team is providing you with an all expenses paid trip to meet with
them in Atlanta, Georgia. Discuss and share your views of what it means to service adults
in a robust 21st century Human Resource private sector organization. In addition, the
interview team wants you to provide and discuss steps that you would take to develop an
innovative program for up and coming managers within the company.
Human Resources Director
Direct/coordinate all Human Resources functions including policy development and
administration, management practices, employment law, licensing compliance, employee
relations, development, compensation & benefits, health & safety workers’/ unemployment
compensation and recruiting / orientation.
Excellent interpersonal, team building, communication, and strong computer skills required.
Bachelor’s Degree in HR or related field, with a minimum of 8 years management /
supervisory experience required. Preferred candidates will have a Master’s Degree and/or
HR certification. Experience with non-profit licensing regulations a plus!
Competitive salary and comprehensive benefits plan. EOE. Applications are available on
our website. No phone calls please.
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