Assessing College Students' Knowledge: Access and Equity

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 1
  In Roundtable Session: Access, Persistence, Success, and What Works

Abstract

Considering the current political and global climate, preparing a diverse society of educated citizens is crucial. While Americans see the value of higher education, most are not happy with the equity and access to quality higher education. This study investigated the paradox that exists between the knowledge that college students gain in colleges and their higher-order thinking skills as they exit postsecondary education as relates to race and gender. Our analysis reveals inequitable access to skills that are valued by employers such as higher-order thinking and problem-solving skills. Additionally, our analysis suggests an existence of grade inflation within this institute of higher education.

Authors

• Roofia Galeshi, Radford University

• Jung-ah Choi, Saint Peter’s University