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Improving models for student retention and graduation using Markov chains.


ABSTRACT: Graduation rates are a key measure of the long-term efficacy of academic interventions. However, challenges to using traditional estimates of graduation rates for underrepresented students include inherently small sample sizes and high data requirements. Here, we show that a Markov model increases confidence and reduces biases in estimated graduation rates for underrepresented minority and first-generation students. We use a Learning Assistant program to demonstrate the Markov model's strength for assessing program efficacy. We find that Learning Assistants in gateway science courses are associated with a 9% increase in the six-year graduation rate. These gains are larger for underrepresented minority (21%) and first-generation students (18%). Our results indicate that Learning Assistants can improve overall graduation rates and address inequalities in graduation rates for underrepresented students.

SUBMITTER: Tedeschi MN 

PROVIDER: S-EPMC10292706 | biostudies-literature | 2023

REPOSITORIES: biostudies-literature

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Improving models for student retention and graduation using Markov chains.

Tedeschi Mason N MN   Hose Tiana M TM   Mehlman Emily K EK   Franklin Scott S   Wong Tony E TE  

PloS one 20230626 6


Graduation rates are a key measure of the long-term efficacy of academic interventions. However, challenges to using traditional estimates of graduation rates for underrepresented students include inherently small sample sizes and high data requirements. Here, we show that a Markov model increases confidence and reduces biases in estimated graduation rates for underrepresented minority and first-generation students. We use a Learning Assistant program to demonstrate the Markov model's strength f  ...[more]

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