Research

Research Design and Data

The research design for the Urban Transfer Research Network includes two main approaches. The first tracks and analyzes community college student cohorts' pathways and success in attaining the Bachelor's degree. Each of the participating community colleges submit data sets to the participating universities, where the community college unit records are merged with university records. This research includes subgroup analysis specific to underrepresented students. The second approach focuses on policy and practice through qualitative research including interviews and focus groups with students, faculty and staff. A Data Advisory Committee and a Policy Advisory Committee guide and inform each of the three sites to ensure sound research practice and to bring about improved institutional structures and processes that will facilitate student transfer and success.