Exploring the Goals and Achievement of First-Generation College Students PDF
Abstract
Exploring the Goals and Achievement of First-Generation College Students
First-generation students are often defined as students whose parents have not attained a 4-year bachelor’s degree. Prior research has found that first-generation students often face unique challenges that differ from continuing-generation students including but not limited to lower retention rates and a decreased chance of completing their degree in a time-efficient manner (Ishitani, 2006). Our two primary research questions for this project asked what specific goals first-generation and continuing-generation students are pursuing, and secondly, how achievement levels between these groups may differ. To address these research questions, we surveyed undergraduate students (N = 365) of a chemistry course at The Ohio State University. These students were asked to complete an online survey consisting of open-ended questions asking their most important academic, social and well-being goals. The responses were then qualitatively coded through a goal content analysis to identify shared goal patterns between first-generation and continuing-generation students. The results indicated that both first-generation and continuing generation students pursue various types of goals. Additionally, we conducted an independent samples t-test to compare achievement (i.e., student’s final course grade), between the two groups. The results demonstrated a significant difference in achievement between first-generation and continuing generation students, t(315) = -5.84, p < 0.001. The first-generation students (M = 66.65, SD = 13.54) showed significantly lower achievement than continuing-generation students (M = 76.15, SD = 12.31). These results build on existing evidence to highlight the importance of understanding the challenges that first-generation students might face in a classroom. Furthermore, our findings contribute a more nuanced understanding of the specific goals that first-generation students strive to achieve.
Joseph and Jackson – Thank you both for your presentation and enlightening us on the opportunities to support first-generation college students. At Ohio State, are you aware of practices or programs in place to support student success and the transition for first-gen students?
Thank you so much for your comment! From my understanding, Ohio State does have a program set up specifically for first-year first-generation students called Buckeyes First. The program offers qualifying students the chance to move into residence halls a week early to familiarize themselves with the campus area and Columbus. The week also includes activities aimed at providing tools to help these students in their first year. I’m also aware of a student organization for first-generation students called “Buckeyes First”. Additionally, the Dennis Learning Center is a great resource for all students. Although not only for first-generation students, DLC provides many supportive services that can bolster student success at Ohio State. Even with these existing programs, I still think more support is needed to help first-generation students adjust to the challenges they share.