Individual, Family, and Community Education ETDs

Publication Date

6-25-2010

Abstract

Universities use the National Survey of Student Engagement (NSSE) to evaluate university quality. Student engagement is theorized to relate to student outcomes. Recently, the validity of the NSSE has been questioned, with studies finding limited predictive validity. This study investigates the relationship between NSSE subscale scores (benchmarks and scalelets) and student outcomes, specifically first-year college GPA and third semester retention status. Linear and logistic regressions were used to evaluate the relationships, controlling for high school GPA, gender, and race/ethnicity. The subscales were minimally predictive of first-year GPA, but not at all predictive of third semester retention status. Implications and future directions for research are discussed.

Keywords

Prediction of scholastic success--United States, College freshmen--United States, National Survey of Student Engagement--Validity, College dropouts--Prevention

Document Type

Thesis

Language

English

Degree Name

Educational Psychology

Level of Degree

Masters

Department Name

Individual, Family, and Community Education

First Committee Member (Chair)

Root, Tom

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