An analysis of cohort models in technical education at Kansas City Kansas Community College

Abstract

This mixed method study was conducted to gain a better understanding of technical educational center (TEC) cohort programs at a midwestern urban community college. In a cohort model, the students start a program and progress through the curriculum together until completion (Bista and Cox, 2014). Specifically, the study focused on two student types, high school students who were taking college courses and postsecondary students as well as the TEC cohort faculty. The TEC cohort model was examined to learn more about the graduation rates, continued program enrollment, and student support systems. Due to a gap in the literature about cohort models in relationship to race, ethnicity, and gender, those aspects were also studied. The results of the study found that postsecondary students graduated at a higher rate than high school students. Relationships developed throughout the cohort among classmates and with the faculty were indicated as a contributing factor to program completion. Other themes included cohort model structure, hands-on learning, career opportunities, and student attitudes. The study concluded with a set of four recommendations.