Examining the Impact of Text Messaging in a College Access Program for Predominately Low-Income Students

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 64
  In Roundtable Session: Leveraging and Promoting the Use of Technology in Higher Education

Abstract

Funded by the U.S. Department of Education, ProMod seeks to support predominately low-income, Hispanic high school seniors into postsecondary education by using text messaging from near-peer mentors to assist in minimizing barriers to accessibility and reminding students of required tasks to be completed prior to college. This study uses a mixed methods approach including surveys, focus groups and a text message coding scheme in order to examine the impact texting has on high school participants in terms of their relationships with their near-peer mentors, how it influences their college and financial aid applications as well as their college-going rates. This poster will also discuss findings from these analyses and how it has informed future decision-making of utilizing text messaging.

Authors

• Stephanie Sowl, Iowa State University

• Virginia R Downing, Arizona State University - Tempe

• Natalie Nailor, Arizona State University

• M Jeanne Wilcox, Arizona State University