Assessing the Effectiveness of a GEAR UP (Gaining Early Awareness and Readiness for Undergraduate Programs) Program: An Evaluative Case Study

• In Event: Lessons Learned: Evaluating the Impact of School Reform

Abstract

This paper details an evaluative case study of one GEAR UP program in the southeastern US, alerts other current or future GEAR UP grantees and their evaluators about potential implementation and assessment challenges, and hopes to spark a conversation at the national level of the efficiency and value of such programs. The framework used for the evaluative case study takes into consideration the fidelity of program implementation in the assessment of overall program effectiveness and return on investment (ROI). Findings include implementation details and challenges, as well as student outcomes. This case study provides information crucial to the national discussion about how best to serve students and effectively, efficiently, and sustainably prepare them to succeed in college.

Authors

• Watson Scott Swail, Educational Policy Institute

• Kate Quinn, Educational Policy Institute

• Maly Fung, Educational Policy Institute

• Shawn Dickerson, Educational Policy Institute