AEA Papers and Proceedings
ISSN 2574-0768 (Print) | ISSN 2574-0776 (Online)
Do Embedded Supports Promote Engaged Learning? Experimental Evidence on Resource Use among Community College Students
AEA Papers and Proceedings
(pp. 356–361)
Abstract
We report results from an experimental evaluation of an intervention in which tutoring and advising services were embedded directly into “gateway” community college courses and targeted to students identified by faculty and staff as at risk of not completing the course. Students in treated sections significantly increased their meetings with instructors, tutors, and advisors while decreasing their use of online learning management system resources. The positive impact on staff resource utilization was particularly strong among first-generation college students. The findings suggest that providing readily available in-person support substantially increases its uptake, potentially as a preferred alternative to asynchronous online materials.Citation
Bird, Kelli A., and Benjamin L. Castleman. 2026. "Do Embedded Supports Promote Engaged Learning? Experimental Evidence on Resource Use among Community College Students." AEA Papers and Proceedings 116: 356–361. DOI: 10.1257/pandp.20261101Additional Materials
JEL Classification
- H75 State and Local Government: Health; Education; Welfare; Public Pensions
- I23 Higher Education; Research Institutions
- I28 Education: Government Policy