Running head: HEA 2960 MIDTERM ASSESSMENT 1

HEA 2960 Midterm Assessment

Matthew Robinson

Wright State University

Running head: HEA 2960 MIDTERM ASSESSMENT 2

I. Describe what impact or influence each item listed below had on the emergence of the modern
community college? (7pts)

 Morrill Land Grant I

The first Morrill Land Grant act helped to establish schools in each state that focused on
agriculture and mechanical arts. This made college a viable option for laborers, not just the elite.

 Morrill Land Grant II

The second Morrill Land Grant act helped to establish HBCU’s across the country after the Civil
War. This also introduced the normal school concept, which focused on teacher education.

 World War I era (1915-1920)

This time period saw the introduction of the Smith Hughes Act, which provided federal funding
to states in order to promote vocational education. This emphasis would allow more schools to
focus solely on trade skills rather than just the liberal arts. The Progressive Education movement
led by John Dewey also began during this time. Progressive Education places an emphasis on
learning through experience and doing, which is a stark contrast from the traditional university
style.

 GI Bill (1945)

The GI Bill allowed servicemen to attend colleges and trade schools for free. Millions of soldiers
were able to receive an education, which increased the need for more colleges nationwide due to
the influx of students.

 Harry S Truman

President Truman was given a report that is now known as the Truman Commission Report that
proposed that higher education promoted a democratic society. This report is where the term
community college originated. This report also called for a network of community colleges so
that all Americans could receive some form of education.

 Decade of the 1960’s

The 1960’s saw the passing of the Higher Education act which provided federal aid to
community colleges across the country. Many colleges were built during this time and the baby
boomer generation began attending college. This era also saw Civil Rights come to the forefront
which saw the desegregation of many universities in the south.

 Perkins Act of 1984

Running head: HEA 2960 MIDTERM ASSESSMENT 3

The Perkins Act provided funding for vocational education, specifically technical schools. This
helped students gain skills and education to prepare them for the growing field of technology in
the 1980’s.

II. Describe what strategy you would use to improve community college student retention for
each of the time periods listed below? (3pts)

 Before classes begin for students

I would employ a dynamic orientation program that would not only allow students to gain
necessary information entering college but also introduce them to the culture of campus. I would
also be intentional with our admissions efforts in that we would always try to be in contact with
prospective students. I believe that if our students feel they are wanted on campus, they will stay
on campus.

 During students first semester

For the first semester, I would implement a required FYE course that would teach students’ skills
necessary for college success and that would introduce them to campus resources in a more in
depth way than at orientation. Some skills that would be taught include time management,
studying effectively, note taking, and email etiquette. This course would also emphasize the
importance of involvement on campus to their success.

 From the start of second semester through graduation

For students in this category, I would want to increase efforts in getting these students involved
with internships and exploring career options. I would support expanding career services so that
our students can be connected to employers and begin building relationships that will hopefully
lead to employment. By taking an active role in helping our students get employed, I feel that
they will see that we are committed to them as people, not just numbers for funding.