HIGHLIGHTS
- How can we best help students complete their postsecondary programs?
- We applied evidence standards to research on postsecondary interventions.
- Abt determined which approaches work best, and shared the results with stakeholders.
PROJECT
What Works Clearinghouse Postsecondary Education, Postsecondary Preparation, and Evidence Reporting (WWC-PEPPER)
The Challenge
Millions of students need to prepare for and stay in postsecondary educational programs. Numerous programs seek to help the students achieve their educational goals. There is research that evaluates these programs, but there was previously little rigorous analysis of the research to determine what is valid and which programs work.
The Approach
Abt led the What Works Clearinghouse Postsecondary Education, Postsecondary Preparation, and Evidence Reporting (WWC-PEPPER) project. Through this project, Abt applied evidence standards to research on postsecondary programs, practices and interventions. Abt also developed products that clearly communicated findings to postsecondary stakeholder audiences such as teachers, administrators, policymakers and researchers.
The Results
Through WWC-PEPPER, Abt provided clear guidance on effective interventions and strategies to help students prepare for--and succeed at--the postsecondary level. Readily accessible, credible evidence on approaches that work is important in the postsecondary field, which spans multiple systems, from middle school college prep programs through college and into job placement. Abt developed products to inform stakeholders as they look to adopt, develop, or scale up successful postsecondary interventions. Learn more.
Related Publications:
- Using Technology to Support Postsecondary Student Learning: A Practice Guide for College and University Administrators, Advisors and Faculty
- Designing and Delivering Career Pathways at Community Colleges: A Practice Guide for Educators
- Effective Advising for Postsecondary Students
- Intervention Reports
Related Projects: