College Completion Rate Declines For Younger Ages
Young adults are less likely to have earned a degree than their older counterparts, according to a Brookings Institution report based on Census data. Though the percent of adults with a baccalaureate degree rose from 24 to 28 from 2000 to 2008, a smaller percentage of 25-to-34 year-olds than 35-to-44 year-olds held one in 2008. The reverse was true in 2000. The report focuses primarily on demographic trends in the country’s 100 largest metropolitan areas. It highlights the probable de-skilling of USA as the older generations retire from the workforce, unless there are major changes in policy and institutional incentives for completion. Currently, colleges are paid by the state for enrollment ,but not completion.
As a doctoral student working on a study that involves attrition/retention, this discussion is compelling. My study is moving towards a mixed method grounded in qualitative phenomenology with quantitative data embedded into the study. I have reviewed the literature including Tinto’s Integration Model for student departure and found that money and performance seem to be the primary reasons why students quit. Does anyone have any other insights, resources, or suggestions for me to consider in this regard?
Thanks in advance!