Dissertation
A study of Latino student persistence in emerging adulthood: a grounded theory study
Doctor of Education (Ed.D.), Drexel University
01 Mar 2015
DOI:
https://doi.org/10.17918/etd-6441
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to identify the experience and development of academically underprepared emerging adult Latino community college students. The retention and completion of Latino college students in higher education is a serious concern for college officials and has led to the enactment of legislation by many state lawmakers across the United States. Not only has the context in which students persist evolved into a funded system based on outcomes, a new psychosocial level of development called emerging adulthood has been proposed with relatively unknown ramifications for Latino students. Using grounded theory methodology, this study has identified critical areas that can support Latino emerging adults as they persist at a California community college and who anticipate transferring to a baccalaureate degree institution. The three theoretical categories that materialized from this research, which supports Latino students in emerging adulthood in persisting at a community college, are: (a) evolving as a student, (b) self-awareness through reflection, and (c) giving back to help others. This interpretive framework suggests that Latino emerging adult students trace their identity through their concept of Community Cultural Wealth and critical consciousness to overcome oppression and succeed at a community college. This study offers three recommendations for further study and implementation. First, a socially responsive career theory can be developed from the framework suggested in this study and through critical consciousness. Second, a peer advising program should be developed at the site to provide Latino emerging adult students with the opportunity to give back and validate themselves and other students at the college. Finally, a strategic outreach initiative aimed at the parents of prospective Latino students who work in the housekeeping or caregiving industries could help and encourage their children and others in the community to pursue a degree and break the cycle of poverty present in many communities.
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Details
- Title
- A study of Latino student persistence in emerging adulthood
- Creators
- Voltaire Andrada Villanueva - DU
- Contributors
- José L. Chávez (Advisor) - Drexel University (1970-)
- Awarding Institution
- Drexel University
- Degree Awarded
- Doctor of Education (Ed.D.)
- Publisher
- Drexel University; Philadelphia, Pennsylvania
- Format
- INDEFINITE EMBARGO
- Resource Type
- Dissertation
- Language
- English
- Academic Unit
- School of Education (1997-2026); Drexel University
- Other Identifier
- 6441; 991014632219804721