First-generation (FG) college students (students for whom neither parent earned a bachelor's degree) are typically less likely to interact with their instructors and communicate with them by email or in person, compared to continuing-generation (CG) students. Qualitative research suggests FG students are less likely to seek help when they need it,…

Colleges increasingly emphasize the importance of socioeconomic diversity, but little work examines the link between such diversity and outcomes important to the campus climate. Using a national dataset, we test the link between two measures of socioeconomic diversity and cross-racial interaction, an outcome paramount to triggering the benefits of…

This study examines unique patterns of college engagement and outcomes among Latino undergraduate students attending highly selective institutions in comparison with those from other racial/ethnic groups. The study also identifies predictors of select college outcomes--that is, cognitive, affective, and civic outcomes--for this population.…

Despite theoretical evidence positing a positive relationship between campus residency and collegiate outcomes, prior research has not established a causal link. Utilizing propensity score matching and national longitudinal data, this study investigates whether living in university-owned housing impacts retention. The results suggest that the…

Despite increased access to higher education for previously underrepresented ethnic groups, the graduation rates of African Americans and Latinos in higher education pale in comparison to their Caucasian and Asian peers (Aud, Fox, & KewalRamani, 2010). In contrast, Asians are graduating at rates higher than Caucasians; however, the literature…

Academic dismissal resulting from poor scholastic achievement is an unfortunate reality at American universities, and one that involves students, faculty, and academic advisers. This chapter analyzes learning outcomes of the academic dismissal process for first-generation college students (FGS) resulting from a year-long study conducted at a…

An English teacher at Amherst College and Greenfield Community College (Massachusetts) compares characteristics and attitudes of students at the two institutions. It is concluded that, although the students differ in may ways, all are equally deserving of a safe and supportive learning environment and a sound education. (MSE)

Results of an annual survey of the students of the California State University concerning life goals and educational priorities, satisfaction with campus academic and social experiences, and obstacles to achieving educational goals are discussed in relation to changes in the characteristics of college students. (MSE)

A study is reported of how students in an honors program and a transition program for academically disadvantaged students, as well as students in the regular curriculum, become engaged in a variety of experiences and how their quality of effort in the activities is related to student growth and development. (Author/MLW)

Focusing on freshmen commuter students and freshmen dormitory students at Johnson and Wales College, general characteristics and academic achievement were measured. General entrance characteristics included student age, College Entrance Examination Board scores and high school rank. Academic achievement was measured in terms of student grades in…

Compares the self-reported cheating behaviors of fraternity and non-fraternity members and the relation between student cheating and the overall level of greek membership on campus. Fraternity and sorority members cheat more than non-members but cheating would not change dramatically if fraternities or sororities did not exist on campus. (RJM)

The results of this longitudinal study support the hypothesis that, after controlling for background characteristics, women's colleges relate positively to a variety of measures of student satisfaction, perceived changes in skills and abilities, and educational aspirations and educational attainment. Contact with the faculty and administration is…

Data on admission criteria for four undergraduate business administration programs in Western Australian universities were used to investigate variation in student characteristics across schools. Results indicated large differences in student characteristics among schools, which could affect student progress and outcomes. Implications for such…

Presents self-reported prevalence and incidence data about student academic dishonesty generated from an anonymous survey. Over two-thirds of students reported some form of academic dishonesty during a sample semester. Evaluates the perceived effectiveness of cheating countermeasures by comparing those students who admitted involvement with those…

A study of the approaches to learning of adult students in nine United Kingdom colleges of further education found them qualitatively different from those of traditional students as determined by a previous study. Results suggest that adult education courses may inculcate an educational culture inconsistent with the dominant culture in mainstream…