Racial Equity in Community College Transfer Incentive Policies: A Critical Mixed-Methods Analysis

• In Event: Division J Vice Presidential Session. Centering Race and Equity in Community College and Transfer Research

Abstract

We utilized a mixed methods approach, grounded in Critical Race Theory to examine the racial equity of transfer incentive policies. This included an analysis of state policies’ components and mechanisms to consider whether they are grounded in racially unjust assumptions. The critical policy analysis is combined with CritQuant analysis of national data from the High School Longitudinal Study to understand how identified aspects of the policies would affect students of differing races/ethnicities. Our study helps to illuminate whether such policies may improve educational equity for racially minoritized students, or may further contribute to a racially unjust educational system. Implications suggest ways to reform or modify transfer incentive policies and pathways to a bachelor’s degree for racially minoritized students.

Authors

• Caryn Brause, University of Massachusetts - Amherst

• Ling Chen, University of Massachusetts - Amherst

• Jeff Edelstein, University of Massachusetts - Amherst

• Patricia Feraud-King, University of Massachusetts - Amherst

• Chrystal A. George Mwangi, George Mason University

• Jamina Scippio-McFadden, University of Massachusetts - Amherst

• Kat J.M. Stephens, University of Massachusetts - Amherst

• Miguel Tejada, University of Massachusetts - Amherst

• Ryan S. Wells, University of Massachusetts - Amherst