Comparison of USMA Graduates from the Class of 1950 with Graduates from Other Colleges on Selected Variables

摘要

The purpose of this study was to compare the responses of USMA graduates from the Class of 1950 with those of graduates from civilian colleges on a number of topics of current interest. Most of the topics dealt with many of the goals of education which are obtainable and observable only in adult life. The questionnaire that was used to gather data on these goals of education and other information consisted of the following seven major sections: background information, activities, changing society, viewpoints, educational benefits, memory of college experiences, and personal traits. The respondents to the mailed questionnaire were divided into five groups: USMA graduates still on active duty; USMA graduates not on active duty; the total number of USMA graduates who responded to the questionnaire; graduates from eight civilian engineering and science schools; and graduates from 74 civilian colleges and universities. Analysis of the results shows that although the groups have very similar response patterns to some items, their responses on other items were often markedly distinct. Generally speaking, it appears that the USMA graduate compares favorably, if not more favorably, with graduates from civilian colleges and universities on most of the topics that were analyzed. It is especially noteworthy to report the finding that the typical USMA graduate feels that he has benefitted more by going to college than does the graduate from a civilian institution of higher education. It is cautioned that any interpretations of these results must be made in conjunction with the goals, philosophies, values, and beliefs of USMA and the other colleges, since they may vary from institution to institution. (Author)