This study examined the student characteristics of learning style, locus of control, computer experience and access, and online course experience on persistence of community college students in online courses. An online survey instrument based on the Barsch Learning Style Inventory (1996), the Abbreviated Measure of Internal-External Locus of Control (1974), and a computer experience scale that was developed by the researchers was completed by 225 students enrolled in online courses at five Florida community colleges. Logistic regression analysis identified a three-variable model (auditory learning style, grade point average, and basic computer skills) that was significant in predicting online student success. Academic and student support interventions are suggested for community college students who may be affected by these predictors.Community colleges have over the years been leaders in distance education and have significantly invested in online education. Therefore, the issue of student persistence in the online environment is of particular importance for community college administrators. The significance of this issue is heightened by the minimal amount of research addressing persistence in online courses and an even smaller amount addressing student persistence in online courses at the community college level. In addition, there is a lack of understanding of variables that could be used to predict the persistence of students in online courses.This study addresses this lack of understanding by examining online community college student persistence.

Higher education has provided students with distance learning opportunities for over 150 years. This chapter traces the evolution of distance learning and provides an overview of some of the challenges inherent in learning in an online environment.

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Minority faculty voice their views on a variety of issues through both quantitative and qualitative data, revealingissues of concern and areas of satisfaction.

The use of drugs and alcohol by National Collegiate Athletic Association Division I African American female basketball players and their reasons for using these substances were examined. The investigation is part of a broader study investigating the use of alcohol, weight-loss products, tobacco, amphetamines, and anabolic steroids by female college athletes. Of the 50 athletes in this study, 72% reported having consumed alcoholic beverages, and 46% had engaged in binge drinking. Only 8% reported using either weight-loss or tobacco products, and there were no reports of using amphetamines or anabolic steroids. Usage patterns indicated that the athletes in the study were aware of the short-term negative effects of alcohol and tobacco; those respondents who did use these products greatly reduced their consumption during the competitive season. Factors found to influence use include social and peer influences and coaches' rules.