A Comparison of Specialized and General Orientation Courses for Community College Students

This study examined the effect of specialized orientation courses on community college student academic achievement and retention. The study utilized a quantitative design and compared the outcomes of specialized orientation courses to a more generalized orientation course. Due to the lack of previous research, there was little to suggest either a positive or a negative influence on student success measures for a targeted, specialized version of orientation courses. The study found that achievement outcomes did not differ between specialized orientation courses and general orientation courses. The study did find retention differences based on the type of orientation course completed. Students completing the specialized orientation course were less likely to enroll the following Fall term. These findings should be of interest to community college leaders and academic advisors who make decisions regarding orientation courses.