Dual enrollment equity pathways: A research‐based framework for expanding college and career opportunity for underserved students

• Published in: New directions for community colleges 2024-10, Vol.2024 (207), p.47-60
• Main Authors: Griffin, Sarah, Steiger, Jessica, Garcia Tulloch, Aurely, Fink, John, Jenkins, Davis
• Format: Article
• Language: English
• Subjects: Access to education; Career development planning; Community colleges; Diversity equity & inclusion; Dual enrollment
• ISSN: 0194-3081; 1536-0733
• DOI: 10.1002/cc.20637

This article introduces “dual enrollment equity pathways” (DEEP)—a research‐based framework for rethinking à la carte dual enrollment as a more equitable on‐ramp to college programs of study that lead to high‐opportunity careers for students historically underserved in dual enrollment. Using interview data collected from six sites (six community colleges and 12 of their high school partners) that have expanded access and early college success of underrepresented student groups through à la carte dual enrollment, the manuscript describes key themes and emerging evidence of DEEP related to each of the four practice areas of the DEEP framework: (1) outreach to underserved students and schools; (2) aligning dual enrollment to college degrees and careers in fields of interest; (3) early career and academic exploration, advising, and planning; and (4) high‐quality college instruction and academic support. The chapter concludes with considerations for how the DEEP framework influences dual enrollment practice.