Postsecondary developmental education and its impact on student learning and academic success

摘要

ABSTRACTPOSTSECONDARY DEVELOPMENTAL EDUCATION AND ITS IMPACT ON STUDENT LEARNING AND ACADEMIC SUCCESSbyKIM NOREEN LUTZMarch 2012Advisor:Dr. Gerald OglanMajor: Curriculum and InstructionDegree:Doctor of EducationThis study explores the affective characteristics of students taking developmental education courses at the postsecondary level. It is widely acknowledged in research that affective issues still remain at the forefront of impeding the success of developmental education students. This is one step in examining the types of interventions which may aid in the academic success of students. This study focuses on an ethnographic approach as it relates to learning and the academic success of developmental education students. Through an interview process, the study encourages students to explore and reflect upon their college experience, their experiences as a college student, specific course experiences, and the developmental education experience. Along with studying the potential academic conflicts a student may encounter, both personal and institutional conflicts will be examines. In addition, this study may contribute to the research on how a college can best support developmental students, both in and outside of the classroom.In this study, a qualitative design methodology is utilized through an ethnographic approach which is supported by a case study format. Data collection in the natural setting is used to develop a narrative of the experiences of three developmental education students over a period of one quarter. Data sets include transcribed interviews, field notes from classroom observation, reflective journal entries of each participant, and transcribed member checking. Data collection authentically documents and represents each participantu27s experiences while taking developmental education courses. Constant comparative analysis of the data identifies meaning and patterns across categories.This study focuses on the participantsu27 reflections of their own college experiences, being a college student, specific course experiences, and developmental education experiences. Key findings emerged that support current research in how affective characteristics impact the academic success of a student, setting academic goals and focusing on the future helps to move a student forward to meeting those goals, support from the developmental education program can aid in student academic success, success in developmental courses can help a student succeed in other courses. Significant and worthwhile personal changes occur with implication for all areas in student learning and academic success.