Objective: This project analyzed recent doctoral dissertations addressing the role of community colleges in rural development for the purpose of identifying themes in the reported results and offering recommendations for future research. Methods: A meta-synthesis approach was utilized with 20 doctoral dissertations from the time period 2009 to…

Reviews the literature on the economic development role of rural, suburban, and urban community colleges; the role of the community college in technology transfer; employment, training, and literacy programs; and economic impact studies. (Contains 40 references.) (KP)

Describes a study of the perceptions of Oregon community college and business representatives regarding the colleges' role in 23 economic development activities. Reveals little agreement between the business representatives and college administrators, support for increasing the colleges' economic development role, consensus among vocational and…

States that the community college system plays a significant role in supporting economic development at the local and state levels in North Carolina. Examines census data in order to determine if there is a link between community colleges and economic development. Finds that a link does exist--establishing a community college potentially…

Researchers asked 17 participants in a job-training program to describe their personal struggles following an economic restructuring. Examined through a critical theoretical lens, findings indicate that the learners enrolled in the program to reclaim security, dignity, meaningful work, and caring relationships. Program planners at community…

Uses human capital theory to support the role of community colleges in economic development, indicating that improving job skills and preparing students for employment are economic development activities and within the college mission. Firm-specific training should not be college subsidized unless part of an economic development strategy. (DMM)