Using Improvement Science to Explore the Importance of a College-going Community in a Latinx Neighborhood

• In Event: Construyendo Caminos: Expanding Access and Pathways for Latinx/a/o/e Students

Abstract

This study uses improvement science to understand how providing college information to parents impacts their knowledge and beliefs about college readiness. Set in a context of an immigrant Latinx community, the study assessed co-develop college readiness workshops offered in trusted community settings. Using surveys and interviews, the findings indicate that relationships are critical to recruiting parent participants and that the community is resilient, even in the face of multiple challenges. Parents indicated that their new understanding of college pathways would impact how they speak with their children about college, and that affordability is critical to the belief that college attendance is possible. Community-based college workshops support communities that otherwise have limited access to higher education systems that facilitate social mobility.

Authors

• Graciela Ortiz, California State University - Fullerton

• Chenoa S. Woods, California State University, Office of the Chancellor