A comparison of New River Community College graduates' and leavers' views on the amount and importance of general education in the occupational curriculum

Abstract

This study determined and compared the views of New River Community College graduates and leavers of occupational programs on the optimal amount and importance of general education. Data were collected via mail and telephone surveys from a random sample of 400 New River Community College occupational graduates and leavers. Specifically, subjects were asked to provide information pertaining to: actual proportions of general education taken, optimal amount of general education desired, importance of general education competencies, importance and number of general education classes taken, and demographic variables influencing program completion.

Results suggested that actual amounts of general education differed from the optimal amount desired. All AAS and certificate graduates and leavers had taken proportionately more general education than desired, in particular certificate leavers. Analysis of the importance of general education competencies revealed that communication skills, critical thinking skills, mathematics skills, and vocational adjustment were rated high by all groups. Knowledge of arts and literature, knowledge of health and fitness, and ethical perspectives were rated as least important. Low correlations were common between importance and number of general education courses taken.

The study identified sufficient consciousness among the groups surveyed to suggest that community college administrators should reevaluate required proportions of the general education component in the occupational curriculum. Focus should be placed on the amount of general education required in occupational programs, necessary outcomes of general education, and need of general education courses for occupational students.