New York College Learning Skills Association

RTDE Issue Contents

Research and Teaching
in Developmental Education

Volume 22, Issue 2, Spring 2006

Building a Bridge to Improve Student Success: A Collaborative Project between
Western Connecticut State University and Area High School
By Paula Maida and Abbey Zink

Abstract

Western Connecticut State University (WestConn) is working with two local high schools to improve student proficiency in English and mathematics through the 3-phase “Building a Bridge” project. In Phase 1, WestConn placement exams in English and mathematics were administered to high school juniors, who later received their placement results and additional feedback. In particular, students who placed into remedial courses were advised to enroll in coursework during their senior year to improve their skills. During Phase 2, WestConn and high school faculty met to formulate curricular changes for the upcoming school year. Phase 3 occurs one year after Phase 1, when the initial cohort of juniors will take the placement exams as seniors to determine whether improvements have been made. At this time, a new cohort of juniors is tested to begin a new cycle. This article discusses the first two phases of this “Bridge” project as the third phase is currently underway.