ABSTRACT
This chapter discusses the Thompson Scholars Learning Community programs, which served as the context of the study. It provides an overview of the PASS Project study design and methodology. The chapter also provides an overview of the program elements that were generally included as part of the program; there was some differentiation in implementation due to campus context and student populations served by a specific program. The authors gathered documents to understand the historical context and mission of each program (e.g., syllabi for first-year seminars, instructor orientation materials, lists of shared academic courses, and annual reports submitted to the foundation each year). Academic support included developing study skills and selecting a major. Career support included how to find an internship and research opportunities as well as professional etiquette and mock interviews. Staff members met individually with students at least once a semester for the first two years to discuss the student’s goals and review their academic progress.
