Exploring the Shifting Landscape of Community College Education in the Era of Dual Credit Reform

• In Event: Interrogating Organizational Change and Reform in Postsecondary Education

Abstract

Dual credit (DC) courses allow high school students to earn college credits, typically through community colleges. These programs have grown exponentially, requiring community colleges to serve larger proportions of high school students and, as a result, tackle new challenges. Yet, little research has considered how DC growth is influencing the public two-year sector. To that end, this qualitative case study focuses on one large community college system in Texas where DC enrollments account for 25% of the student population. Drawing on systems theory, document data, and interviews with 14 administrators, we address one primary research question: How has the community college adapted to DC expansion? We document the college’s successes and challenges and highlight implications for community colleges expanding DE.

Authors

• Julia C. Duncheon, University of Washington
  Presenting Author

• Dustin Hornbeck, University of Memphis
  Presenting Author

• Barbara F. Tobolowsky, University of Texas - Arlington
  Non-Presenting Author

• Taryn Ozuna Allen, Texas Christian University
  Non-Presenting Author