Create a bigger impact

In the world of higher education, where resources are limited, students and professors are beginning to focus these resources on specific practices that will ultimately help them the most down the road.

PCC’s High Impact Practices Series comprises four seminars that will discuss two topics during each session. Each workshop is meant to help students become better prepared to join the work force or to continue their academic careers at a four year school, according to studies done by the Association of American Colleges and Universities.

“The hope is to institutionalize these practices,” said Dr. Shannon Johnson, the overseer of PCC’s High Impact Practices.

Surveys and student outcome data have shown that students that engage in these practices tend to receive better grades, and are thus more prepared to transfer or start their careers, according to Johnson.

Data also shows that historically underserved students, such as African American males, have shown a better return and completion rate at their respected schools while participating in High Impact Practices.

This series was made possible by two grants received by the department of Career and Technical Education. One was a $2.2 million grant from the California Department of Education. The second was a $15 million grant from LA Hi-Tech. This grant went to seven other community colleges and 16 high schools throughout the greater Los Angeles area, but PCC is the fiscal leader.

“Today we see rapid changes in technology in the work place,” said Engineering and Technology professor Deborah Bird, who oversees the design and technology pathway. “Education needs to respond to challenges that students face in developing their careers.”

One of the main focuses of the series is “experiential learning,” or internships.

“The program is integrated with economic and workforce development,” said Salvatrice Cummo, who runs the Small Business Development Center. The SBDC will host the last discussion of the series with the goal of assisting engagement between students and local business owners.

The High Impact Practice Series will be February 5, March 5, April 8, and April 30. Each meeting will be held in the Creveling Lounge from 11:30a.m. until 1p.m.