This study analyzed predictors of fall-to-spring and fall-to-fall retention for 9,200 first-time-in-college students who enrolled in a community college over a four-year period. Findings highlight the impact of developmental education programs and internet-based courses on student persistence. Additional predictors include financial aid, parents'…

A research study used the strategy of practitioner consensus to identify the common success criteria and standards that are used in the evaluation of developmental/remedial programs in New York State two-year colleges. The study also designed an evaluation model for these programs and determined its use over time. Using a survey and an interview…

Scholarship and persistence statistics for low-aptitude students in the developmental studies program include: (1) a comparison of the fall 1967 developmental students' grades with the grades for those remaining in spring 1968 and taking regular college classes; (2) the spring 1968 grades in each subject for these same students, and a comparison…

Robert L. Somers, who directs the Telementoring Project at Appalachian State University, explains the project's efforts to develop inservice training packages and deliver them to developmental educators nationwide using a variety of telecommunications technologies. Reviews technical and financial aspects of project participations. (AYC)

Describes the evaluation system of the Developmental Studies Program in Georgia. Reports findings of the evaluation of the English program. (FL)

This report discusses the state of developmental education in West Virginia from the perspectives of faculty, staff, and administrators throughout the state. It begins by defining developmental education as more than just "remedial" education and relying on faculty, focused coursework, and peer and professional support to help students…

The roster of developmental programs available to students in community colleges is expanding, though remedial education itself does remain a marginal aspect of higher education. The programs are usually under-funded, segregated from "regular" offerings, and taught by part-timers. This report suggests that the colleges are sending signals that…

This digest is drawn from the spring 2002 issue of New Directions for Community Colleges, titled "Next Steps for the Community College." It summarizes three overlapping challenges facing colleges in the coming decade: educating a more diverse student body, assessing student outcomes, and maintaining the educated workforce needed to meet…

This report provides a description of how developmental students perform in 26 of Michigan's associate degree-granting institutions. The study finds that 67% of students enrolled in developmental English passed; 52% of students enrolled in developmental math passed; and 67% of students enrolled in developmental reading passed. It is more common…

Describes a study conducted at the University of Tennessee at Marin to find a test more suitable than the Nelson-Denny Reading Test (NDRT) to accurately measure reading improvement in developmental classes. Found no support for replacing the NDRT with the Descriptive Tests of Language Skills or the Comparative Guidance and Placement Program. (DMM)

Argues that a computerized data management system can help the developmental educator maintain professional accountability. Reports on a project conducted at the State University of New York Agricultural and Technical College at Canton during which paperwork was reduced and report writing expedited through a computerized management information…

Describes a study of 300 college and university basic skills programs conducted to obtain information on organization, skills emphasis, placement and exit criteria, staff training and professional development, effective teacher qualities, and relationships with other college programs and services. Summarizes site visit and survey findings…

Compares qualitative and quantitative research in developmental program evaluation. Reports on a small-scale, field study evaluating the academic self-esteem of students in an academic skills program. Concludes that the exploratory and indicative nature of qualitative research can provide information on students' affective development and enhance…

Lists seven government agencies as potential sources of funding for developmental education programs. Each agency listing, provides details related to funding goals, the restrictions placed upon the use of funds, applicant eligibility criteria, and sources of further information. (JP)

Scores on the Career Decision-Making Self-Efficacy Scale for 418 underprepared undergraduates were analyzed to determine component structure. Two distinct components for underprepared students were identified: information gathering and decision making, which accounted for 60% of variance among scale items. (SK)