Cognitive Development Among Latino Students at Selective Universities: An Examination by Gender, Socioeconomics, and Language

• In Event: Hispanics and Higher Education: Aptitudes, Community Colleges, and Labor Market Returns

Abstract

Relatively few studies have focused on change or gains in students’ cognitive outcomes during college; even fewer have focused on cognitive development among underrepresented college students. 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, the researchers attempt to understand cognitive skills development among Latino college students at selective research universities. Paired samples t-tests and ANOVA results demonstrate significant mean changes over time in all cognitive skills measures among Latinos in general and within their gender, socioeconomic, and language subgroups. Hierarchical multiple regression results indicate several predictors of cognitive skills development, including freedom to express beliefs, psychological well-being, and faculty, academic, and learning involvement.

Authors

• Young K. Kim, Azusa Pacific University

• Marla Franco, The University of Arizona

• Liz A. Rennick, Azusa Pacific University