A Simpler Pathway Summary

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In the article, “A Simpler Path, Authors Say, is Key to Community-College Completion,” addresses the implementations of the guided pathway’s model, and the benefits and limitations of streamlining the model to community college campuses. This model challenges the traditional “cafeteria style” model of advising, (Mangan, 2017) by introducing a more structured learning-centered approach. Academic advising typically includes helping students develop a clearer understanding of their course of study, and helps develop the skills needed to meet a student’s college and career goals. The guided pathways model provides a way to ensure students stay on track towards the completion of their program, and further job advancement (Bailey et al., 2015).
The guided pathways model was implemented in hopes to “lift completion numbers and close the achievement gap between minority and white students” (Mangan, 2017). This model has improved the way students are guided through their college process from the start of their college career on to graduation. There is a major emphasis on improving academic degree plans and …show more content…

Restricting degree plans can give students fewer choices which will allow for more structured curriculum, enhanced guidance, and improved college completion rates (Mangan, 2017). One major challenge that can interfere with the guided pathways model is insufficient or inconsistent enrollments. Pathway’s models implement specific scheduling for cohorts, which poses a challenge to students who do not fall within the traditional enrollment guidelines. Many community colleges have adult learners and other non-traditional students that attend their schools. These students may find it more difficult to complete their degree requirements on time due to responsibilities outside of the classroom (I.e. childcare, jobs, financial

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