We examine the impact of remedial and developmental courses on college students with varying levels of academic preparedness, thus focusing on a wider range of students than previous studies. Using a regression discontinuity design, we provide causal estimates of the effects of placement in different levels of remedial courses on short-,…

A startling number of students arrive at the doors of colleges and universities lacking the essential skills and knowledge required to succeed there. If given the proper tools and supports, the great majority of these students would be able to achieve their goals in and outside of the classroom. But most of them are shuttled off to developmental…

Exploiting a statewide cutoff point on the placement examination used to assign students to remedial courses in Tennessee, this study employs a regression discontinuity research design to provide causal estimates of the effects on student outcomes of recently redesigned remedial courses at three Tennessee colleges. Moreover, using data on student…

This article discusses the successful use of technology, rather than lectures, by Tennessee's community colleges to teach developmental reading and math. The redesign occurred with the support of the National Center for Academic Transformation (NCAT). In fall 2007, the Tennessee Board of Regents (TBR) staff convened meetings to familiarize its…

Examines the impact of statewide mandatory testing and placement in Tennessee's community colleges on the retention and academic progress of minority students. Reports that attrition is higher for developmental students and higher for minority than White students. Few Blacks enroll directly in college-level courses and fewer still persist for…

In 1990, a study was conducted to determine whether a relationship existed between the attitudes of directors and instructors regarding developmental education and students' ratings of their courses or instructors in remedial and developmental studies. Eleven of Tennessee's 12 community colleges participated in the project. Data were collected…