Research Project: Accelerated Learning Project (ALP)

Shared by Peter Adams on Jul 9, 2008. Last Updated on Jul 9, 2008.

Principal Investigator(s): Peter Adams

For More Information: padams2@ccbcmd.edu

Keywords: basic writing, developmental writing, mainstreaming, longitudinal studies, program review, Two-year college

Permission to Cite: Yes

Abstract/Summary: The Accelerated Learning Project (ALP) is a second-generation mainstreaming program designed to improve success rates and reduce attrition rates of students who take basic writing courses. At the conclusion of its first, pilot, year, the program has produced startling results. The percentage of students placed in the upper-level basic writing course who succeed in passing FYC has doubled from 27% for the traditional approach to 57% for the ALP group. The attrition rate of 26% is less than half the 63% of the traditional group.

Project Background: This project builds consciously on earlier models for mainstreaming basic writers. We have tried to combine the best features of stretch programs, intensive programs, studio programs, and others . . . and have added a few features of our own.

Research Question or Hypothesis: Can the ALP model for mainstreaming basic writers improve the success rates and retention rates of basic writing students?

General Research Approach: Mixed / Multi-Modal

Participants and Setting: In its first year, 2007-2008, 74 students at the Community College Baltimore County participated in this pilot of ALP.

Research Methods: longitudinal research quasi-experimental research survey

Data / Information Sources: academic transcripts demographic information survey responses

Funding: Council of Writing Program Administrators Research Grant FIPSE (applied)

Intended Audience: writing program administrators teachers of basic writing college or university administrators responsible for developmental education

Data Available: View data at http://faculty.ccbcmd.edu/~padams/ALP/indexa.html

Results Available: View results at http://faculty.ccbcmd.edu/~padams/ALP/indexa.html

Follow-Up Studies or Implementation Plans: We will double the number of students in ALP in 2008-9 and continue our data gathering and surveying of them and a control group. We will also add focus groups and portfolio analysis to our research approaches. In 2009-10, we plan to expand the number of students involved and to conduct experimental research using random assignment.

Related Publications: Adams, Peter. "Basic Writing Reconsidered." Journal of Basic Writing, 12 (1993), 22-36.