CCRC Research Tools No. 2: Using Longitudinal Data to Increase Community College Student Success: A Guide to Measuring Milestone and Momentum Point Attainment

Longitudinal student unit record data can be used to answer many important questions about student progression. This guide shows researchers how to use longitudinal student unit record data to identify different student groups among first-time community college students, calculate rates of attainment of milestones and momentum points for each group, and identify barriers to success for each group. The information from such an analysis can be used to identify college practices and student behaviors that are associated with successful outcomes, and it can inform the development of policies and practices that address barriers to achievement. Examples are presented from an analysis CCRC researchers conducted for the Washington State Board for Community and Technical Colleges.