College: 2-year

This research report provides results from a longitudinal study of GED test-takers from a 2003 cohort of approximately one-half million candidates. Data were obtained from the GEDTS International Database (IDB) and the National Student Clearinghouse (NSC), a nonprofit organization. About one third of GED test passers enrolled in 2-year colleges. These enrolles tended to have higher GED test scores than non-enrollees, although the effect size was small. 

This study evaluates the impact of the Quantum Opportunity Program (QOP), a case management and mentoring program for high school students aimed at increasing high school graduation rates and college enrollment. It was found that sites implementing the QDP model generally did not meet enrollee needs for education or support services, and most enrollees attended fewer program activities, though there was significant variability by site.

This study assessed the relationship between the English language arts and reading assessment scores of 11th grade students and their ability to both read and comprehend textbooks used in entry-level college English courses. Findings revealed a 75 percent comprehension level for students, and that 51 percent of students can read 95 percent of first-year English textbooks used in entry-level college classes. 

This report highlights innovative strategies and priorities aimed at community college improvement as well as providing next steps for Massachusetts colleges and state officials to improve student outcomes. Some recommendations for next steps include: effectively implementing performance funding and developmental education reform, expanding access to structured pathways to credentials, identifying and removing barriers to innovation, and supporting sustained advocacy.

This report from the College Board describes the current state of the Pell Grants, the need for reforming them, and recommendations on how to reform them in order to increase the effectiveness of the Pell Grant program. Some of these recommendations include dividing the program into two components, one that serves people through the age of 24 and one that serves older adults; simplifying the application process and eligibility criteria; and changing the award eligibility requirements for those over the age of 24.

This report from ACT examines academic factors indicative of first-year college success and retention for high school students, specifically underrepresented racial/ethnic minority and low-income students. The report finds that college readiness, core curriculum, and taking additional coursework in math and science are directly related to college success. This report also discusses factors that lead to lower college success rates and presents recommendations for narrowing achievement gaps.

This study evaluated if the knowledge and skills contained in the Common Core State Standards Initiative reflect what is important for college and careers. A national sample of instructors from 25 course categories in two- to four- year institutions were selected. Results suggested a positive correlation between proficiency in the Common Core State Standards and the extent of readiness students exhibit for a wide range of post-secondary courses.

This 4-year longitudinal study evaluates the experiences of high school graduates enrolled in tech prep programs in eight regions across the nation. The study reports on their demographics, college readiness risk indicators, vocational interests, and performance as a function of graduation requirements at their high schools. The researchers reported no differences between participants and non-participants of tech prep programs with regard to college enrollment rates and percentage of students completing a degree or certificate.