Latino College Students at Highly Selective Research Universities: An Examination of Their Cognitive Skills Development

• In Event: Roundtable Session 28
  In Roundtable Session: Students’ Critical Reflections on Identity and Role

Abstract

Latinos represent the fastest growing population in the United States, yet are severely underrepresented in educational attainment. Utilizing the University of California Undergraduate Experience Survey, this study attempts to understand cognitive skills development among Latino college students at highly selective research universities. Independent samples t-tests and ANOVA results indicate that Latino students report the most gains in cognitive skills over time yet remain below other racial subgroups in their junior or senior year. Hierarchical multiple regression results indicate several predictors of cognitive skills development, including academic involvement and initiative, sense of belonging and satisfaction, elevated academic effort, and research or creative projects experience. In addition, similarities and differences between Latino students and students of other racial subgroups are discussed.

Authors

• Young K. Kim, Azusa Pacific University

• Liz A. Rennick, Azusa Pacific University

• Marla Franco, The University of Arizona