Applied learning participation rates
The number and percentage of students participating in substantial experiential or applied learning experiences, providing preparatory skills for workforce and transfer programs.
Research shows that adults learn effectively when classroom education is combined with applied learning. In addition, research shows that students who participate in work-based learning earn more and are more likely than others to report that their education was worth the cost and helped them achieve their goals. 2 Applied learning can also help students become more competitive in job searches and transfer applications. Colleges can use this metric to assess the extent to which students engage in applied learning—which should be reflected in program maps—and whether there are disparities in which student subgroups are more likely to engage in applied learning opportunities. When combined with learning outcomes assessment data and post-graduation data on workforce and transfer outcomes, colleges can use applied learning rates to understand how well students are set up for success after community college.
While college leaders will find value in collecting data on all students, consistently disaggregating data whenever possible can reveal outcome disparities. This information is essential for colleges developing strong reform plans to improve and close disparities in student success.
- Race/ethnicity
- Gender
- Family/Personal Income
- Age
- Parent/Dependent status
- Attendance intensity
- First-generation status
- Veteran status
Students may identify with one or many of the above identities. College leaders should consider how these different identities intersect and pay close attention to these relationships and how they may influence each student’s experience.