El Camino College is one of 64 California Community Colleges to receive grant funds to support work on existing basic skills projects and basic skills-related professional development. ECC's funding includes $1.5 million over three years, which started in July 2016. The Basic Skills and Student Outcomes Transformation Program (BSSOT) promotes and supports evidence-based practices at El Camino College, including the assessment and placement of students using multiple measures. Math professor and BSSOT Activity Director Lars Kjeseth's recent report to the Board of Trustees regarding BSSOT activities shows an increase in direct placement into transfer-level English and mathematics, greater alignment and contextualization of remedial math classes to fit students' program of study. In addition, proactive and classroom-integrated student support services such as Supplemental Instruction and The Opportunity Project have been expanded, as well as continued support for English class tutors. Shorter remedial pathways through transfer-level English and math have also been achieved. Future plans include support courses for English 1A and transfer-level mathematics courses, a redesigned English Summer Bridge Program and broader professional development activities. View the BSSOT report: https://www.boarddocs.com/ca/ecccd/Board.nsf/files/AWZV896FE989/$file/Basic%20Skills.pdf.
Basic Skills and Student Outcomes Transformation Program Updates