The Mixed Methods Blog

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

Why Has Community College Enrollment Declined and What Can We Do About It?

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Recent data suggest that students are returning to community colleges, though total numbers are well below pre-pandemic levels. Davis Jenkins explores the causes of enrollment declines in recent decades and examines ways colleges can build on successful reforms to improve student outcomes.

What Happened to Community College Enrollment During the First Years of the Pandemic? It Depends on the Students’ Age

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For the first time following the pandemic, we can examine detailed state- and college-level enrollment trends by age group using the latest federal data. Senior Research Associate and Program Lead John Fink examines these numbers and offers three major takeaways on how community college enrollment changed during the pandemic.

CCRC to Lead Research Network on Pandemic Recovery in Community Colleges

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The Institute of Education Sciences has selected CCRC to lead the Accelerating Recovery in Community Colleges Network (ARCC Network), which will include research teams from across the country that will study recovery strategies such as enhanced financial aid, innovative workforce programs, improved online and hybrid education, and new course formats. 

Three Colleges and a Pandemic: One Student's Road to a Bachelor's Degree

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Looking back at transferring during the pandemic, CCRC intern Nabiha Sheikh discusses her college journey, and CCRC Senior Research Associate John Fink explains how the transfer process can be improved.

An Opportunity to Expand College Access? Rethinking Dual Enrollment Eligibility Policies Post-Pandemic

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Suspended at the height of the pandemic, placement testing is back on the table as an option for determining eligibility for dual enrollment—what should states and colleges do? CCRC researchers John Fink, Sarah Griffin, and Maggie Fay share their recommendations in this blog post.