OCCRL researchers study policies, programs, and practices designed to enhance outcomes for diverse youth and adults who seek to transition to and through college to employment. OCCRL’s research spans the P-20 education continuum, with an intense focus on how community colleges impact education and employment outcomes for diverse learners. Results of OCCRL’s studies of pathways and programs of study, extending from high school to community colleges and universities and to employment, are disseminated nationally and internationally. Reports and materials are derived from new knowledge captured and disseminated through OCCRL’s website, scholarly publications, and other vehicles.
OCCRL accomplishes this goal through research and development (R&D) projects in the following three areas.
OCCRL conducts studies of policies, programs and practices associated with academic and career pathways and programs of study that are designed to enhance student transition to college and careers. Related OCCRL projects:
- Community College Transformative Change
- Illinois State Board of Education High School Programs of Study
- Pathways Resource Center (PRC)
- Pathways to Results (PTR)
- Programs of Study
- Shifting Gears
- Trade Adjustment Assistance Community College Career Training (TAACCCT) Evaluations
- Transfer Experience and Advising Mentors (TEAM)
OCCRL conducts evaluation studies of policies and programs designed to improve the college and career readiness of students at every level of education. These studies include federal policies designed to prepare students for employment. Related OCCRL projects:
- College and Career Readiness Pilot Evaluation
- College and Career Readiness & STEM Education
- Adult Bridge Program Evaluation
- Colorado SUN
OCCRL studies policies and practices designed to facilitate students’ progress to and through high-quality college degrees, as well as the outcomes associated with those credentials. Related OCCRL projects: