The Mixed Methods Blog

Perspectives from our researchers, highlights from recent studies, and other news about CCRC

James Jacobs is the president emeritus of Macomb Community College and a research affiliate at CCRC.

What Students Want Out of Noncredit Workforce Programs

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Former CCRC associate director and advisory board member Jim Jacobs shares insights from a study that sheds light on student concerns with short-term workforce training programs and their implications for public policy.

A Student-Centered Vision for Workplace Development

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While community college practice has changed considerably in recent decades, workforce and economic development programs remain stagnant. Jim Jacobs reflects on how community colleges might update the way they work with employers to ensure equity remains a central goal of workforce programs.

Prior Learning Assessment: A Key Piece of the Credit-Noncredit Discussion

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To boost adult enrollment and credential attainment, community colleges must make it easier for students to secure college credit for their previous work experience. 

Rethinking Community College Workforce Programs

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In this essay, Jim Jacobs argues that community colleges need to consider whether their workforce development programs are helping or hurting their equity missions.

Fixes for Short-Term Pell

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In this essay for Inside Higher Ed, CCRC Research Affiliate James Jacobs describes three potential unintended consequences of allowing students to apply Pell funds to short-term training programs.