By Matt Reed. A new study finds that community college students who take an introductory course with an adjunct professor are less likely to take subsequent courses in the same discipline than students who took the intro course with a full-time professor. More...
Taking Diversity Seriously
The Intro Course
When There’s No Capstone
Salary Compression and Step-Grids
By Matt Reed. I was in my thirties the first time I heard the phrase “salary compression.” At first I assumed it was an inelegant way of saying “low pay,” which is only half-right. It’s more commonly used to refer to a salary gap between incumbent employees -- especially longer-term ones -- and new hires that the incumbents consider too small. More...
Monopsony and Higher Education
'Demonstrated Interest' Is Really Time-Consuming
By Matt Reed. In the community college world, the admissions process tends to be relatively straightforward. You show up before the deadline with evidence of a high school diploma or equivalent, fill out a few forms, apply for financial aid if applicable, make a payment, and schedule a placement test, an orientation session, and your classes. SAT’s and ACT’s are optional, and used only for placement. More...
The Search Continues...
An Accidental Argument for Honors Programs
By Matt Reed. Going from an academically challenging high school to an academically unchallenging college correlates with increased rates of depression, according to a new study. More...
Defending the Bad Against the Awful
By Matt Reed. Colleagues all over the internet have responded thoughtfully to the President’s persistent confusion about the role of community colleges. The former pitchman for Trump University casts aspersions on community colleges, in favor of “trade schools,” in apparent ignorance of the broad and deep “workforce development” roles that community colleges have played for decades. More...