Introduction

The need for research to improve dual credit programs in Illinois emerged from discussions conducted by an advisory team associated with the Articulation Project. This joint initiative was developed in 2001 by the Office of Community College Research and Leadership (OCCRL), the Illinois State Board of Education (ISBE), and the Illinois Community College Board (ICCB).

Goals

1. To conduct research related to the improvement of systems for dual credit implementation.
   
2. To serve as a resource for policy makers and practitioners on good practices related to dual credit.
   
3. To disseminate information on dual credit policies, program models, and best practices in Illinois and nationally.

Activities

To learn about best practices in dual credit, the research team used three approaches. First information was gathered on policies and practices in use nationally through a review of the literature and visits to two well-known programs. Second, telephone interviews were conducted with a representative from each Illinois community college to learn about current practices across the state. Finally, site visits were made to four community colleges in Illinois identified as having well developed dual credit programs.

Sample Products

  Dual Credit/Enrollment in Illinois:
    Delphi Study of Definitions and Priorities ( Report | Presentation )

  Conference presentations on Dual Credit:
     - Articulation Project Team Meeting : The second panel meeting.
     - The Diffusion of Dual Credit in Illinois : Council for the Study of Community         Colleges (CSCC).
     - Dual Credit: Making it Work : Connections Conference, 2004.
     - Dual Credit: Making it Work : Illinois Education Research Council (IERC), 2004.       - OCCRL : Illinois Council of Community College Administrators, 2003.
     - Dual Credit: Making it Work : National Tech Prep Network (NTPN).
     - A Delphi Study of Definitions and Research Priorities : CSCC.
     - Dual Credit in Illinois: Evolving Under Local Control : CSCC.

  Summaries of Outstanding Programs:
     - College Now, New York - synopsis
     - Running Start, Washington - synopsis

  Dual Credit in Illinois: Making it Work

Participating staff: Debra D. Bragg