Initial Results of Illinois' Shifting Gears Pilot Demonstration Evaluation

Overview & Synopsis

This report provides initial results of Illinois' Shifting Gears Initiative that operated between July 1, 2007 and June 30, 2009. This mixed method (qualitative and quantitative) evaluation sought to accomplish three goals: (1) to assess program and student outcomes for two models (adult education and developmental education) for two target groups (6-8.9 grade level and 9 grade and above); (2) to test three hypotheses regarding innovative program implementation; and (3) to analyze the strength of evidence needed to support systemic and policy changes related to bridge program development and implementation. Three of the pilot demonstration sites chose the Model A-Developmental Education approach that sought to move students from developmental education to college-level course work, and Model B-Adult Education approach that students sought to transition students from adult education and English literacy to postsecondary education, with all seeking to implement innovative instructional approaches. (Contains 24 tables and 5 footnotes.) [This report was supported by the Department of Commerce and Economic Opportunity (DCEO).]