The main focus of this research is to understand how the use of communication technology impacts students of color performance in online gateway courses. The analysis for this research study is part of a larger, ongoing study of online students of color at the institution. The archival data was obtained from Introductory to Business and Introductory to Psychology courses taught by instructors trained in the use of text messaging and web synchronous communication tools. Both quantitative and qualitative methods were used to analyze data for this study. The quantitative analysis was conducted on data collected from Introductory to Business and Introductory to Psychology classes that were enhanced with asynchronous communication (text messaging) and synchronous communication (webinars) tools. For the qualitative analysis, the researcher conducted individual one on one interviews. The interview participants were high achieving students of color who earned a final grade of A in Business 110 or Psychology 150. Chi-square analysis was used to assess the impact that the use of text-messaging and web synchronous communication tools has on student success. The statistical results indicate asynchronous communication (text-messaging) has a stronger impact on students of color than synchronous communication (webinars). [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]