Survivors of Complex Trauma as Adult Online Learners

Abstract

Complex trauma is both a product and a source of significant multidimensional inequality, including profound disruption to survivors’ educational trajectories. Nonetheless, educational researchers have not previously engaged with adult survivors who study online, contradicting the key principle of collaboration within a trauma-informed approach. This qualitative instrumental collective case study explored how adults with a history of complex trauma experience postsecondary open/online learning. Findings included participants’ struggles with executive functioning, challenges regulating emotion and dealing with a heightened perception of threat, re-experiencing trauma, negative beliefs about the self, and difficulties navigating relationships. These trauma impacts affected not only participants’ learning and course experience, but also their experience of applying, registering, and accessing financial aid. Nonetheless, participants are demonstrably skilled in managing the impacts of their trauma and are driven to learn, placing the highest intrinsic value on education. Top priorities for the implementation of trauma-informed educational practices identified by participants included establishing safety; trust and transparency; and empowerment, voice, and choice. Implications include enhancing equity and inclusion for survivors of complex trauma through the implementation of trauma-informed educational practices in open/online postsecondary contexts.