Students’ Perceived Importance-Satisfaction Gaps in Vertical Transfer Experiences

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study contributes to the understanding of vertical transfer pathways between lower division coursework and seven four-year institutions of higher education that were identified as Title V eligible or emerging institutions at the time of the study. By incorporating vertical transfer students’ perceptions of importance and satisfaction of components within pre-, mid-, and post-transfer phases, insights into how to improve the transfer experience are gained. These insights can guide practitioners in optimizing transfer practices, organization, and support. Overall, a better vertical transfer experience increases access to higher education and serves society in facilitating educational mobility. A set of generalized linear models were incorporated to predict the importance-satisfaction gap scores for the three phases of vertical transitions. The findings indicate the need for strengthened partnerships and pathways between institutions of higher education to support student success in vertical transfer.