DUAL CREDIT AND DUAL ENROLLMENT: AN ANALYSIS OF THE EXPERIENCES OF HIGH SCHOOL STUDENTS THAT COMPLETED HIGH SCHOOL WITH A DUAL DEGREE

Author

Vickie Artman, Southern Illinois University CarbondaleFollow

Date of Award

5-1-2017

Degree Name

Doctor of Philosophy

Department

Educational Administration

First Advisor

Donahoo, Saran

Abstract

This particularistic qualitative study examined the perceptions of 18 students’ dual credit experience and the viewpoints of three administrators. While limited in scope, this study makes an important contribution to what is currently known about dual credit experiences from students that have graduated with a dual degree at the completion of high school. Primary data collection occurred through individual interviews with the students and with the administrators. Nine themes were identified from the qualitative analysis of the students’ interview responses and 10 themes were identified from analysis of the administrators interview responses. Student themes related to influence, the dual credit experience, student decisions/choices, value, desire to continue, dual credit concerns, advice to high school students, and the top three advantages to a dual credit program. The student participants reported that, while the dual credit experience had been challenging, the program resulted in positive educational outcomes, time savings, cost savings, and access to college courses. Administrator themes related to the dual credit enrollment process, influence, the student experience, support systems, student choice, outcomes of acquiring a dual degree, impact of dual degree status on pursuit of higher education, degree completion, advice for dual credit students, and the future of dual credit programs. While the three administrator participants valued the dual credit program, each provided a unique view of the program. The findings from this study may help to improve future dual credit experiences for the students and help to create a favorable relationship between the community college and high school. Conclusions drawn from the findings were reported. Implications for policy, research, and practice were identified. Recommendations were made for further research.