Four-Stage, Systems-Based Model of Graduate Student Transformation

• In Event: Poster Session 3
  In Poster Session: College Student Learning and Outcomes Poster Session 2

Abstract

Literature regarding the graduate school experience primarily focuses on admissions, demographics, socialization, funding, retention, advising, mentors, time-to-degree, and attrition, but few consider the development and transformation of master’s and doctoral students. The current body of research considers particular aspects of the graduate experience, but to know these facets without understanding their interconnected nature from admission to career advancement is not enough. From a dynamic, holistic viewpoint and using systems methodology, the data in this study present the process students undergo. This study offers a systems-based model for the persistence and transformation of graduate students using Interactive Qualitative Analysis (IQA) (Northcutt & McCoy, 2004), a quantitative coding of focus group and individual interview data with drivers and outcomes.

Author

• Rachel Anne Winston, Claremont Graduate University