Strategies from the Field
The NCTN Promising Practice Series presents detailed descriptions of strategies from the field that are designed to promote the successful transition of students from adult basic education to postsecondary education and training.
Backpacks to Briefcases College Transition Program
At Davidson County Community College, a highly structured contextualized curriculum increases young adult students’ motivation and self-efficacy. Designed for students who are within 6-8 months of graduating with a GED or adult high school diploma, this program accelerates their college and career readiness.
College for a Day
A simulated day at college, featuring sample classes and panel discussions on campus, is one way to help ABE/ESOL students to make the transition to postsecondary education.
Math Curriculum Alignment
Based in Hartford and New Haven, the Urban Corridor Project sponsored the development of a new curriculum designed to help adult students bridge the gap between the math skills they learn in adult education and those needed to succeed in college-level math courses.
Preparing Students for College-Level Math
Math instructor Pam Meader shares several of the activities she uses in her algebra courses, including peer interviews, goal-setting, journaling, labs, and even a murder mystery.
Transition Student Portfolio Model
Recently, the CLC moved to an all-portfolio format for their Bridge Program. The new format includes checklists for portfolio contents on college preparedness, computer activities, and math and writing assignments.
Using Syllabi in Transition Classes to Build College Knowledge
Many Bridge Program students at the Community Learning Center in Cambridge, MA are empowered by knowing they can look ahead, check current assignments, and refresh their memories regarding class discussions, just by looking at the syllabus. In addition to serving as an organizing tool, the syllabus functions as an important way to introduce students to college culture.