Panelists at a TCCTA Success Seminar representing the Achieving the Dream initiative focused on two strategies currently achieving notable success in helping students enter college and persist to earn credit for their courses. The group was part of an interactive discussion during the TCCTA annual convention in San Antonio. Terry Mouchayleh, director of professional development and evaluation programs at Austin Community College, served as moderator.
For background, the Achieving the Dream site is available here.
Lynda Villaneuva, director of transitional education and associate professor of psychology at Brazosport College, and Maureen Loiacano, professor of mathematics at Lone Star College–Montgomery, spoke primarily about "Learning Frameworks," a credit-bearing course designed to enhance the retention and success of students who are in "at risk" demographic or educational categories.
"Learning Frameworks" transfers as a freshman-level psychology or education course, depending upon the approach used at each institution and the student's degree plan. The course consists of study skills, with a heavy emphasis upon attendance and mandatory advisement. Students who have completed this course in programs at Brazosport College and in the Lone Star System display higher rates of success, as measured by completion of developmental courses, retention, and passing "gatekeeper" credit classes.
Frank Savina, professor and early college start instructor of mathematics at El Paso Community College, described the "Early College" program at his school—a cooperative effort with local school districts and the University of Texas at El Paso. Qualifying ninth graders begin their college career by taking a study skills course (EDUC 1300), as well as biology. The speaker emphasized that collaboration among faculty members at all levels is crucial to the success of the program. Many students in El Paso have achieved an associate's degree by the time they graduate from high school.
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