063-Annual-Report-2023-v13 Final pages - Flipbook - Page 11
Five Year Research Trends
SUBMISSIONS
AWARDS
EXPENDITURES
80% increase
113% increase
175% increase
Putting the transfer track
under the microscope
Kris Frady, associate professor in the College
of Education, is using a CAREER award from
the National Science Foundation to expand
the understanding of engineering students
transferring from technical colleges to
universities, which she hopes will result in tools
to aid these students along their academic
journey.
Frady’s research is already shedding light on
assets and challenges for the transfer student
population. The next research phase will
involve the creation of digital tools that will
help to assist students along the way as they
enter four-year institutions.
"I always knew technical colleges were
important, but studying them and their
students has revealed how connected they are
with local industry and communities," Frady
said. "I believe understanding such a large
student population is important for the future
of both higher education and industry in South
Carolina and beyond."
The initial findings revealed that two- and fouryear institutions should prioritize improving
advising, support services and general student
engagement to affect retention positively. The
findings also indicate numerous geographic
and demographic nuances that educational
leaders can factor into support services to
improve student success.
2024 Annual Report | 10
