Stacey Edmonson

High School Students and Their Lack of Preparedness for College: A Statewide Study

In this study, the authors examined the college-ready graduate rates of all students (n = 1,099 high schools) in the State of Texas for the 2006-2007 school year. Data were analyzed for students’ scores in reading, in math, and in both subject areas combined. Approximately one-third of all students were determined to be college-ready in both subject areas. Statistically significant and practically relevant differences, reflecting moderate to large effect sizes, were present in reading, math, and both subjects among Hispanic, African American, and White students. Concerns are expressed about the lack of preparedness of students for college and about the presence of strong achievement differences as a function of ethnicity. Implications of these findings are discussed.

The Voices of High School Dropouts: implications for research and practice

Dr. Alice Fisher Sam Houston State University PO Box 2119 Huntsville, Texas 77341 Edu_axf@shsu.edu 936.294.1165 Originally developed in 1942, the General Educational Development (GED) exam was designed to help veterans who had left high school before graduation in order to join the armed services. This certificate allowed them to pursue college degrees without having to go back to high school (Brown, 2000). Over the years, people from all walks of life have earned the GED diploma, among them United States Senator Ben Nighthorse Campbell of Colorado; comedian Bill Cosby; actor Michael J Fox; and musicians Waylon Jennings and John Michael Montgomery.

The Impact of Technology on High School Principals

The purpose of this study was (a) to research the impact of electronic communication on the role of the principal and school leaders and (b) to investigate patterns of unanticipated consequences or phenomena that have developed within the organization along with the widespread use of electronic media. Twelve themes were identified and grouped into two main categories of the principals role and computer-mediated communication.

Community Colleges and Market Responsiveness: A Conceptual Analysis and Proposed Model

In this article, we explore the functions of the traditional community college and its expanding mission in regard to its responsiveness to changing economic conditions and workforce development needs. To date, few researchers have specifically addressed market responsiveness in community college settings across the United States. In addition, we introduce a model in which a comprehensive framework of the components and dimensions that comprise a market responsive institution is provided. Examining dimensions that characterize market responsive community colleges helps to deepen the theoretical and practical understanding of market responsiveness in two ways. First, it helps educators gain a greater understanding about the internal and external contexts in which community colleges operate. Second, it helps educators better understand how core institutional internal and external dimensions interact to create a market responsive environment. The proposed Model of Market Responsive Institutions can be used by community college leaders as a guide for understanding their internal and external context. In addition, community college leaders can use this model in identifying factors that support their ability be responsive in a constantly challenging and changing environment.

Instructional Technology Practices in Developmental Education in Texas.

The purpose of this study was to examine the current state of technology integration in developmental education in Texas higher education. Analyzing survey data from developmental education faculty members in 70 2- and 4-year colleges in Texas, researchers identified instructor-reported best instructional technology practices in developmental education and barriers impeding technology integration into developmental education instruction. Based on the findings, practical implications were drawn to supplement instructional and learning practices in developmental education courses.

Intercultural Competence and Student Engagement of U.S. Community College Students: A Mixed Method Study

Abstract In a culturally diverse society, United States community colleges are ideally positioned to develop intercultural competence in students. This mixed method study focused on the relationship between student engagement, as measured by the Community College Survey of Student Engagement (CCSSE) (2005), and intercultural competence, as assessed by the Intercultural Development Inventory (IDI) (Bennett & Hammer, 1998). Student scores from the IDI were correlated with five benchmark measures of the CCSSE. Four of the five CCSSE benchmarks were significantly correlated with IDI scores. Then, students scoring in the highest and lowest quartiles on the IDI participated in focus groups to explore their perceptions of intercultural competence. Analysis revealed implications for community college leaders that include the value of using instruments like the CSSE and IDI to assess students’ intercultural competence. Practical implications also included the importance of collaborative classroom activities and exposure to racially and ethnically diverse faculty and students, as well as college-sponsored community service, cultural events, and study-abroad opportunities

Review of Survival Kit for Leaders

In a world where scandals and corruption appear in the daily headlines, effective leadership is critical in just about any field. Kunick and Lesters Survival Kit for Leaders offers a refreshing look at how to develop and/or maintain quality leadership skills. The books eight chapters offer clear explanations on how to be most effective for new or experienced leaders. Each chapter is concluded with thought-provoking questions suitable for discussion in a classroom or group setting. The book also offers easy to remember mnemonics to help aspiring leaders remember important concepts offered by the authors. Well-known examples of outstanding current or past leaders such as Jackie Robinson and Anne Sullivan are used to illustrate key concepts as well. This interactive and motivational book offers a powerful yet practical approach to developing leadership skills.