University of Wisconsin Stout Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions

Transcription

1 University of Wisconsin Stout Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions Prepared for: University of Wisconsin Stout June 2006

2 University of Wisconsin Stout Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions Prepared for: University of Wisconsin Stout Prepared by: Anderson, Niebuhr & Associates, Inc. Northpark Corporate Center 6 Pine Tree Drive Suite 200 Arden Hills, MN (651) June 2006

3 University of Wisconsin - Stout Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions TABLE OF CONTENTS Conclusions and Recommendations...1 Background and Purpose...4 Research Method...5 Summary of Findings...7 I. College Planning...7 II. Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions Unaided Definition...12 III. Interest in Polytechnic Institutions Aided Definition...19 IV. Demographic Information...28 Appendices Appendix A: Verbatim Comments Appendix B: Student and Parent Questionnaires

4 Conclusions & Recommendations This section of the report provides conclusions and recommendations based on the results of the study. Conclusions from the data are presented first, followed by recommendations ( ) pertaining to the conclusions. College Planning Most students and parents know which college will be attended or have narrowed down their choices; however, nearly twice as many students as parents reported that they are just starting to think about choosing a college. Among respondents who have chosen a college or university and those that have narrowed their choices, many have selected a University of Wisconsin institution. In addition, many have narrowed their choices to primarily public colleges. Most students who selected a college chose it for the array of academic programs offered there. In contrast, parents whose son or daughter has chosen a college most frequently said the college was selected because a specific program is offered there. Given that academic programs are an important factor when choosing a college or university, emphasizing the variety of programs offered at the University of Wisconsin Stout would be beneficial. If a polytechnic designation is adopted, care should be exercised to emphasize the positive aspects of such a designation without conveying a limitation on the variety of academic programs offered. Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions Unaided Definition Prior to the survey, a majority of students and nearly half of parents could not offer a definition of what the term polytechnic means to them. However, among those who offered a definition, most believed it to be a school that offers many options in technical sciences. A misconception among some people in both groups is that it is a two-year or technical school. When asked if select characteristics accurately describe a polytechnic institution, students are more likely than parents to believe that a polytechnic institution offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees and that is it a two-year school. However, parents are more likely to state that they are unsure if these qualities apply to a polytechnic institution. In addition, between one- and two-thirds of all respondents do not know if any of the statements accurately describe a polytechnic institution. Similarly, when respondents were asked whether they agree or disagree with various statements about polytechnics, more than one-third of students and more than half of parents are unable to rate any of the statements. However, more than six in ten students agree that polytechnic institutions provide state-of-the-art technology and are leaders in integrating technology into teaching and learning. University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions 1

5 Students who said they are likely to apply to a polytechnic institution and those who would choose a college or university with a polytechnic focus are more likely than other students to agree that going to this type of institution would increase the likelihood of finding a high-paying job after graduation. In addition, those who would choose a college with a polytechnic focus are also more likely to agree that such schools provide state-of-the-art technology and are leaders in integrating technology into teaching and learning. Finally, when the current mission statement of UW Stout was read to them, most respondents believe it would apply to a polytechnic institution. Overwhelmingly, students and parents do not know what the term polytechnic means nor do they know specific characteristics of this type of institution. If UW Stout adopts a polytechnic designation, considerable effort should be placed on informing the public of what this designation will mean for the school and clearing any misconceptions that this will make the institution a technical school. Because most people do not have an existing image of what a polytechnic school is, UW Stout should recognize that it has an opportunity to create an image through carefully designed and executed information efforts, education, and media campaigns. Such efforts should emphasize the benefits of a polytechnic school without sacrificing any of the positive aspects of UW Stout s current image. Adding a polytechnic designation to the name will not necessarily confuse people about the mission of UW Stout. The polytechnic designation is seen as consistent with the current mission statement. Interest in Polytechnic Institutions Aided Definition More than six in ten respondents said they are at least somewhat likely to apply, or encourage their son or daughter to apply, to a polytechnic institution after hearing the definition. Conversely, about one-third are not likely to apply to such an institution. When respondents who are likely to apply to a polytechnic college or university were asked why, the most common reasons given include: Sounds like a good school or approach to learning Sounds like a good fit for the student s interests Variety of classes and degrees offered there Reasons for not applying to a polytechnic college or university include having other plans or not fitting their (son/daughter s) interest, and a lack of knowledge about what a polytechnic is. Most respondents reported that a polytechnic designation does not make a difference in their choice of college or university. Only one in ten would specifically choose a college with a polytechnic focus if making the choice today, and nearly two in ten students would choose a school without this focus. University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions 2

6 Based only on the name of the institution, students are most likely to state that they would choose to apply to the University of Wisconsin Stout, while parents are most likely to say they would encourage their son or daughter to apply to the University of Wisconsin Stout Institute of Technology. Informing students and parents of programs offered at UW Stout and the characteristics of a polytechnic institution may increase the likelihood of them applying to the institution. However, offering programs that are desirable to students should be the primary goal since this is the reason most students select a college or university. By adopting a polytechnic designation, it should be recognized that certain students will be drawn to the school, while others will be deterred from applying; and for most, it will not impact their college choice. Adding Institute of Technology to the current University of Wisconsin Stout would be the most preferential name, if such a change is made; however, most students would choose the current name. University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions 3

7 Background & Purpose The University of Wisconsin Stout wished to conduct a research study to assess the current level of awareness and the image of polytechnic institutions among students and parents who had inquired at the University. This study was conducted to help determine the impact adopting a polytechnic designation would have on UW Stout and, more specifically, to learn the following: Unaided perceptions of polytechnic institutions Interest in polytechnic institutions with aided definitions Preference of name designation for UW Stout The University of Wisconsin Stout retained the independent market research firm of Anderson, Niebuhr & Associates, Inc. to conduct this research. The following report summarizes the results obtained from high school juniors and parents. University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions 4

8 Research Method This section of the report provides a description of the research method used to conduct the survey, including a description of the population and sample, questionnaire design, data collection, and data analysis. Population and Sample Questionnaire Design The population surveyed includes college-bound eleventh grade students who had inquired at UW Stout in the past and parents of similar students. Anderson, Niebuhr & Associates, Inc. obtained a list of qualified students from the University of Wisconsin Stout. From this list, Anderson-Niebuhr drew a random sample of 100 high school juniors and 100 parents of high school juniors. Working with the University of Wisconsin Stout, a questionnaire for students and a questionnaire for parents were developed. The questionnaires were pretested with 10 parents and 10 students. The results of the pretests were incorporated into final versions of the questionnaires, copies of which can be found in Appendix B. Data Collection The surveys were conducted using Anderson-Niebuhr s established telephone survey methodology. Interviews were conducted using Computer Assisted Telephone Interviewing (CATI) software. Telephone interviewing occurred for parents and students from April 21 through May 14, A total of 200 surveys were completed. The response rates within the student group, parent group, and overall are presented in the following table: University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions 5

9 Population Number of Completed Interviews Accuracy at a 95% Confidence Interval Response Rate Students % ± 9% Parents % ± 9% Overall % ± 6% Data Analyses Each completed questionnaire was reviewed for completeness and consistency prior to computer analysis. In consultation with University of Wisconsin Stout representatives, Anderson - Niebuhr defined the analyses to be performed. Anderson - Niebuhr's on-site computer facilities and computer programs contained in the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences (SPSS/Windows) were used to conduct the analyses. Descriptive statistics were prepared for all items. Statistical comparisons were also conducted to find differences in responses for all closed-ended questions between the following groups: Students and parents Those likely to apply to a polytechnic institution and those not likely to apply Those who would choose a college with a polytechnic focus and those who would choose one without Only those comparisons showing statistically significant differences are mentioned in this report, under the heading Other Findings. University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions 6

10 Summary of Findings This section of the report presents findings for high school juniors and parents of high school juniors. Results are displayed in figures, followed by bulleted points describing the major findings. All statistically significant differences are reported under the heading Other Findings. College Planning FIGURE 1 Q1. Which statement most accurately describes your (son/daughter's) college planning at this time? Students (N=100) Parents (N=100) Choice is narrowed to a few colleges 45% 9% Knows which college will be attended Choice is narrowed to a few colleges 49% 21% Knows which college will be attended Just starting to think seriously about choosing a college 41% 2% 3% Will probably not attend a 4-year college Not thinking about college yet Just starting to think seriously about choosing a college 22% 2% 6% Will probably not attend a 4-year college Not thinking about college yet Students and parents were asked to describe the current state of their (son/daughter s) college planning. While two in ten (21%) parents stated that their son or daughter knows which college will be attended, only about one in ten (9%) students indicated they know (Figure 1). In addition, about half (49%) of parents and nearly as many (45%) students indicated that the choice is narrowed to a few colleges. Finally, while four in ten (41%) students stated that they are just starting to think seriously about choosing a college, about two in ten (22%) parents believe this is the current state of their son/daughter s college planning. 7 University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions

11 Other Findings Students vs. Parents More parents than students believe the student knows which college will be attended (parents=21% vs. students=9%). In contrast, more students than parents believe the student is just starting to think seriously about choosing a college (students=41% vs. parents=22%). 8 University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions

12 FIGURE 1A Q1A. Which college are you planning on attending?* Number of Students (N=9) Number of Parents (N=21) College University of Wisconsin-Stout 1 9 University of Wisconsin-Barron County - 1 University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire - 1 University of Wisconsin-Lacrosse - 1 University of Wisconsin-Madison 1 - University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee - 1 University of Wisconsin-Platteville 1 - University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point - 1 University of Wisconsin-Whitewater 1 - Viterbo University La Crosse, Wisconsin - 1 Minnesota Public 4-year or higher campus 1 3 Technical or Community Colleges 4 - Other Private 4-year or higher campus (not in WI or MN) - 2 Don t know - 1 *Asked only of respondents who stated they know which college they (their son or daughter) are going to attend. Numbers instead of percentages are displayed due to small sample sizes. Respondents who said they know which college they or their son or daughter will attend were asked to identify the chosen institution. Only nine students stated that they know which college they are going to attend (Figure 1A). Four indicated they are planning to attend a higher education institution in Wisconsin, four plan to attend a technical or community college, and one student will attend a four-year college or university in Minnesota. Among the 21 parents who stated that their son or daughter knows which college will be attended, nine said the University of Wisconsin Stout. Further, six indicated that their son or daughter is planning to attend a different school in Wisconsin and three said a public institution in Minnesota. University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions 9

13 FIGURE 1B Q2. Why did you choose this college or university?* Number of Students (N=9) Number of Parents (N=21) Reason First mentioned All mentioned First mentioned All mentioned The array of academic programs A offered specific at the program institution offered at the institution Geographic location Reputation of the institution Recommendations of family/friends Affordable cost/financial aid offered or Other scholarship received *Asked only of respondents who stated they knew which college they (their son or daughter) are going to attend. Numbers rather than percentages are displayed due to small sample size. Students and parents who said they know which college will be attended were next asked why they chose that school. Three of the nine students who said they know which college they are going to attend chose that college for the array of academic programs offered. In addition, a specific program offered, recommendations of family/friends, and affordable cost are reasons mentioned by one student each (Figure 1B). Nine parents who stated their son or daughter knows which college will be attended said that the college was chosen because a specific program is offered there. The array of academic programs and the geographic location were mentioned by six parents each. University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions 10

14 FIGURE 1C Q1B. To which colleges have your choices been narrowed?* Percent of Students (N=45) Percent of Parents (N=49) College University of Wisconsin-Stout 33% 18% University of Wisconsin campus (excluding Stout) 84% 80% Other Wisconsin 4 year or higher campus 18% 12% Minnesota Public 4-year or higher campus 47% 47% Minnesota Private 4-year or higher campus 11% 20% Technical colleges 16% 10% Other Public 4-year or higher campus (not in WI or MN) 31% 24% Other Private 4-year or higher campus (not in WI or MN) 9% 8% Don't know - 8% Refused - 6% *Asked only of respondents who stated their (son/daughter s) choices have been narrowed down to a few colleges. Respondents could offer more than one response. Those who have not decided where to go but who have narrowed down their choices were asked to name the colleges being considered. One-third (33%) of students stated that the University of Wisconsin Stout is among their list of college choices and more than eight in ten (84%) indicated that another University of Wisconsin campus is on the list (Figure 1C). In addition, nearly one-half (47%) of students included a Minnesota public college in their choices and three in ten (31%) indicated a public 4-year college outside of Wisconsin or Minnesota. In comparison, fewer than two in ten (18%) parents included the University of Wisconsin Stout among their son/daughter s choices and eight in ten (80%) stated that at least one other college in the University of Wisconsin system is an option. Nearly one-half (47%) of parents stated that a public college in Minnesota was on their son/daughter s short list and about one-quarter (24%) mentioned a public college outside of Wisconsin or Minnesota. University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions 11

15 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions Unaided Definition Code FIGURE 2 Q3. What does the term polytechnic college or university mean to you?* Percent of Students (N=100) Percent of Parents (N=100) Definition School that offers many options in technical sciences 7% 22% 1 7 Technology education 5% 1% 9 Place to build future 4% 1% 2 Two year/technical school 3% 10% 6 School concentrated on science/engineering/math 1% 9% 4 College or university with a variety of fields 1% 4% 98 Don't know 71% 48% *Only responses mentioned by at least four percent of either students or parents are listed. Respondents could offer more than one response. All respondents were asked what the term polytechnic college or university means to them. About seven in ten (71%) students and almost half (48%) of parents said they don t know (Figure 2). While very few students were able to describe what polytechnic means to them, seven percent described it as a school offering many options in technical sciences and five percent described it as technology education. More than two in ten (22%) parents described a polytechnic college or university as a school that offers many options in technical sciences. One in ten (10%) parents believe it is a two-year or technical school. University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions 12

16 FIGURE 3 Q4. Please tell me if you believe these statements accurately describe a polytechnic institution or if you are unsure: (Students N=100; Parents N=100) A polytechnic institution is a technical school 39% 50% 15% 14% 46% 36% Students Parents The academic programs offered at a polytechnic institution include both undergraduate degrees and graduate degrees 29% 47% 5% 5% 66% 48% Students Parents A polytechnic institution offers all types of degrees 30% 46% 16% 14% 54% 40% Students Parents A polytechnic institution is a two-year school 13% 29% 26% 25% 61% 46% Students Parents 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% Yes No Unsure Students and parents were asked whether they believe several statements accurately describe a polytechnic institution. More than four in ten students and about three in ten or more parents believe the following statements accurately describe a polytechnic institution (Figure 3): A polytechnic institution is a technical school (students=50% and parents=39% yes) The academic programs offered at a polytechnic institution include both undergraduate degrees and graduate degrees (47% and 29%, respectively) A polytechnic institution offers all types of degrees (46% and 30%) One quarter each of students (25%) and parents (26%) do not believe that a polytechnic institution is a two-year school. However, at least four in ten students and more than half of parents are unsure if the following statements accurately describe a polytechnic institution: The academic programs offered at a polytechnic institution include both undergraduate degrees and graduate degrees (students=48% and parents=66% unsure) A polytechnic institution is a two-year school (46% and 61%, respectively) A polytechnic institution offers all types of degrees (40% and 54%) University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions 13

17 In addition, more than one-third (36%) of students and more than four in ten (46%) parents are unsure if a polytechnic institution is a technical school. Other Findings Students vs. Parents Students are more likely than parents to believe the following statements accurately describe a polytechnic institution: The academic programs offered at a polytechnic institution include both undergraduate degrees and graduate degrees (students=47% yes vs. parents=29%) A polytechnic institution is a two-year school (29% vs. 13%, respectively) In contrast, more parents stated that they are unsure if the following statements accurately describe a polytechnic institution: The academic programs offered at a polytechnic institution include both undergraduate degrees and graduate degrees (parents=66% unsure vs. students=48%) A polytechnic institution is a two-year school (61% vs. 46%, respectively) Choosing a polytechnic focused college - Students Students who stated they would choose a college or university with a polytechnic focus are more likely than other students to believe that the academic programs offered at a polytechnic institution include both undergraduate degrees and graduate degrees (with=70% vs. without=58%). However, more students who said they would choose a college or university without a polytechnic focus are unsure if a polytechnic institution offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees (without=42% vs. with=10%). Choosing a polytechnic focused college - Parents Parents who stated they would choose a college or university without a polytechnic focus are more likely than other parents to believe that the academic programs offered at a polytechnic institution include both undergraduate degrees and graduate degrees (without=64% vs. with=18%). Furthermore, parents who stated they would choose a college or university with a polytechnic focus are more likely to be unsure if a polytechnic institution offers both undergraduate and graduate degrees (with=82% vs. without=18%). 14 University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions

18 8% 4% FIGURE 4 Q5. Please tell me if you agree or disagree with the following statements about polytechnic colleges or universities: (Students N=100; Parents N=100) A polytechnic institution provides state-of-the-art technology to their students 44% 56% 1% 2% 51% 34% Students Parents Polytechnic institutions are leaders in integrating technology into teaching and learning 8% 4% 35% 55% 2% 2% 59% 35% Students Parents Going to a polytechnic institution will increase the likelihood of finding a high-paying job after graduation 5% 6% 34% 42% 5% 13% 55% 40% Students Parents The academic programs offered at a polytechnic institution focus primarily on science and engineering 3% 3% 24% 32% 10% 1% 18% 62% 47% Students Parents In general, the quality of education offered at a 3% traditional institution is 17% 22% 58% Students better than at a 3% 9% 16% 2% 70% Parents polytechnic institution 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% Strongly agree Agree Disagree Strongly disagree Unsure Students and parents were asked their level of agreement with several statements about polytechnic institutions. More than six in ten students strongly agree or agree with the following (Figure 4): A polytechnic institution provides state-of-the-art technology to their students (64% strongly agree/agree) Polytechnic institutions are leaders in integrating technology into teaching and learning (63%) Similarly, about four in ten parents strongly agree or agree with the following statements about polytechnic institutions: A polytechnic institution provides state-of-the-art technology to their students (48% strongly agree/agree) Going to a polytechnic institution will increase the likelihood of finding a highpaying job after graduation (40%) Polytechnic institutions are leaders in integrating technology into teaching and learning (39%) University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions 15

19 The percentages of students and parents who strongly agree or agree that the quality of education offered at a traditional institution is better than at a polytechnic institution (students=20% and parents=12%) is similar to the percentage that disagree or strongly disagree (students=22% and parents=18%). However, there is a lack of knowledge in general about polytechnic colleges and universities among students and parents. More than one-third of students and more than one-half of parents said they are unsure about all five statements. Other Findings Students vs. Parents More students than parents strongly agree or agree that polytechnic institutions are leaders in integrating technology into teaching and learning (students=63% strongly agree/agree vs. parents=39%), while more parents are unsure (parents=59% unsure vs. students=35%). Likelihood of applying to a polytechnic institution - Students More students who indicated they are likely to apply to a polytechnic college or university than other students strongly agree or agree that going to a polytechnic institution will increase the likelihood of finding a high-paying job after graduation (likely to apply=59% agree/strongly agree vs. unlikely to apply=27%). In contrast, more students who indicated they are not likely to apply to a polytechnic college or university are unsure if going to a polytechnic institution will increase the likelihood of finding a high-paying job after graduation (unlikely to apply=51% unsure vs. likely to apply=33%). Choosing a polytechnic focused college - Students Students who stated they would choose a college or university with a polytechnic focus are more likely than other students to strongly agree or agree with the following statements regarding polytechnic institutions: A polytechnic institution provides state-of-the-art technology to their students (with=100% strongly agree/agree vs. without=58%) Polytechnic institutions are leaders in integrating technology into teaching and learning (90% vs. 63%, respectively) Going to a polytechnic institution will increase the likelihood of finding a highpaying job after graduation (80% vs. 42%) However, students who stated they would choose a college or university with a polytechnic focus are more likely than other students to disagree that the academic programs offered at a polytechnic institution focus primarily on science and engineering (with=50% disagree vs. without=5%). 16 University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions

20 FIGURE 4A Q5. Please tell me if you agree or disagree with the following statements about polytechnic colleges or universities: A polytechnic institution provides state-of-the-art technology to their students Students (N = 66) Parents (N = 49) Polytechnic institutions are leaders in integrating technology into teaching and learning Students (N = 65) Parents (N = 41) Going to a polytechnic institution will increase the likelihood of finding a high-paying job after graduation Students (N = 60) Parents (N = 45) The academic programs offered at a polytechnic institution focus primarily on science and engineering Students (N = 53) Parents (N = 38) In general, the quality of education offered at a traditional institution is better than at a polytechnic institution 1 1 Strongly Disagree Disagree Mean Rating Agree Strongly Agree Students (N = 42) Parents (N = 30) Mean ratings were calculated for parents and students regarding their agreement with the five statements about polytechnic colleges or universities. The results are shown in Figure 4A, where a mean rating of 1.0 indicated they strongly disagree and 4.0 means they strongly agree with the statement. Respondents who indicated they were unsure about the statements are excluded from this analysis. On average, both students and parents agree that polytechnic colleges provide state-of-the-art technology to their students (students=3.09 and parents=3.06) and are leaders in integrating technology into teaching and learning (3.09 and 3.05, respectively). There is less agreement regarding whether the quality of education offered at a traditional institution is better than at a polytechnic institution (students=2.55 and parents=2.43). However, it is important to note that less than half of parents and two-thirds or fewer of students were able to rate any of the statements. University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions 17

21 FIGURE 5 Q6. There is a University in the Midwest thinking about becoming a Polytechnic Institution. The current mission statement for this school is: "Our institution has a variety of programs leading to professional careers focused on the needs of society, which are adapted and modified as the needs of society change. We offer an approach to learning that combines theory, practice, and experimentation." 100% Do you believe that this mission statement would apply to a polytechnic institution? 92% 80% 77% 60% 40% 20% 0% 8% 15% 0% Yes No Don't know Students (N=100) Parents (N=100) 8% Respondents were read the mission statement for a university in the Midwest and were asked if they believe such a mission would apply to a polytechnic institution. As shown in Figure 5, more than nine in ten (92%) students and more than seven in ten (77%) parents believe the mission statement does apply to a polytechnic institution. University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions 18

22 Interest in Polytechnic Institutions - Aided Definition FIGURE 6 Q7. A polytechnic institution offers a broad array of both undergraduate and graduate programs. Polytechnics have strength in the areas of science and technology, and embrace an educational philosophy that blends theory and practice. Polytechnics support a strong technology infrastructure and are among the leaders in integrating technology into teaching and learning. Given this definition, how likely would you be to (encourage your son or daughter to) apply to a polytechnic college or university? Students (N=100) 9% 54% 29% 8% Parents (N=100) 14% 55% 22% 9% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% Very likely Somewhat likely Not very likely Not at all likely More than six in ten students (63%) and parents (69%) would be very or somewhat likely to (encourage their son or daughter to) apply to a polytechnic college or university based on the definition given (Figure 6). Conversely, about one-third of both students (37%) and parents (31%) are not very likely or not at all likely to (encourage their son or daughter to) apply. University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions 19

23 FIGURE 6A Q7A. Why is it that you would be very likely to (encourage your son or daughter to) apply to a polytechnic college or university?* Code Reason Number of Students (N=9) 4 Sounds like a good school or approach Sounds like a good fit for the student science/technology/computers If it offers classes in the field of interest/depends on career choice 1-20 It's like joining something that is going to be your major 1 - Number of Parents (N=14) 6 Would make the student very marketable Depends on the cost I don't believe in the traditional college Don't know/still not sure what polytechnic is 1 - *Respondents could offer more than one response. Numbers rather than percentages are displayed due to small sample size. Students who are very likely to apply to a polytechnic institution, as well as parents who said they are very likely to encourage their son or daughter to apply, were asked to share their reasons for this decision. Of the nine students that stated they are very likely to apply, five said it is because it sounds like a good school or approach (Figure 6A). Seven out of the 14 parents responding to the question indicated that they would be very likely to encourage their son or daughter to apply to a polytechnic college because this type of institution would be a good fit for the student s interests. Another four parents said they feel this type of education would make the student very marketable. University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions 20

24 FIGURE 6B Q7B. Why is it that you would be somewhat likely to (encourage your son or daughter to) apply to a polytechnic college or university?* Code Reason Number of Students (N=54) 5 Sounds like a good fit for the student science/technology/computers Sounds like a good school or approach Variety of classes offered/variety of degrees offered Student doesn t know what they want to do yet Don't know enough about it/want to learn more about it If it offers classes in the field of interest/depends on career choice Would make the student very marketable Technology is important/society has lots of technology 3 - Number of Parents (N=55) 1 Already have plans/not student s interest Depends on the cost Location It's the student s decision Want student to consider all options Don t like the term/don t understand term Many colleges now that fall under that category Don't know/still not sure what polytechnic is 6 2 *Respondents could offer more than one response. Numbers rather than percentages are displayed due to small sample size. The most common reason given by students who stated they are somewhat likely to apply to a polytechnic is because it sounds like it would be a good fit for their interests (13 students) (Figure 6B). Nine students think it sounds like a good school, eight mentioned the variety of classes/degrees offered, and six students are only somewhat likely because they are not yet certain what they want to do. Eleven parents indicated that they would be somewhat likely to encourage their son or daughter because they feel a polytechnic sounds like a good school or approach, and nine parents stated that it depends if the school offers programs in their son/daughter s area of interest. Seven parents each indicated that they want to learn more about this type of institution, and that they feel this type of education would make their son or daughter very marketable. University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions 21

25 FIGURE 6C Q7C. Why is it that you would be not very likely to (encourage your son or daughter to) apply to a polytechnic college or university?* Code Reason Number of Students (N=29) 1 Already have plans/not student s interest Don't know enough about it/want to learn more about it If it offers classes in the field of interest/depends on career choice 1 1 Number of Parents (N=22) 12 Location 1-17 Student doesn t know what they want to do yet 1-18 Unsure if housing is offered 1-21 Prefer travel schools and technical schools 1-2 It's the student s decision Sounds like a good school or approach Student will not go unless they can play hockey there Hoped it was a college that helps with the learning disabled Don't know/still not sure what polytechnic is 1 1 *Respondents could offer more than one response. Numbers rather than percentages are displayed due to small sample size. Twenty students stated that it is not very likely that they will apply to a polytechnic college because they already have plans or the type of school does not fit their interest (Figure 6C). Twelve parents said they are not very likely to encourage their son or daughter to attend for this reason. University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions 22

26 FIGURE 6D Q7D. Why is it that you would be not at all likely to (encourage your son or daughter to) apply to a polytechnic college or university?* Code Reason Number of Students (N=8) 1 Already have plans/not student s interest Don't know enough about it/want to learn more about it 1 2 Number of Parents (N=9) 13 Don t like the term/don t understand term Don't know/still not sure what polytechnic is 1 1 *Respondents could offer more than one response. Again, numbers rather than percentages are displayed due to small sample size. Only eight students indicated that they are not at all likely to apply to a polytechnic college and nine parents said they are not at all likely to encourage their son or daughter too apply. Of these, six students and five parents stated that it is because they already have plans or it does not fit their interest (Figure 6D). University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions 23

27 FIGURE 7 Q8. Today, if you were to choose a college or university (for your son or daughter) to attend, would you choose a college or university with a polytechnic focus, a college or university without a polytechnic focus, or does it not make a difference? 100% 80% 71% 78% 60% 40% 20% 10% 19% 11% 11% 0% College or university with a polytechnic focus College or university without a polytechnic focus Does not make a difference Students (N=100) Parents (N=100) As shown in Figure 7, students and parents were asked if they would choose a school with a polytechnic focus if they were choosing today. More than seven in ten students (71%) and parents (78%) stated that a college s polytechnic focus would not make a difference in their selection. One in ten students (10%) and parents (11%) would choose a college with a polytechnic focus and about two in ten (19%) students and one in ten (11%) parents would choose a college without a polytechnic focus. Other Findings Likelihood of applying to a polytechnic institution - Students Students who indicated they are likely to apply to a polytechnic college or university are more likely than other students to choose a college with a polytechnic focus if they were choosing today (likely to apply=13% with polytechnic focus vs. unlikely to apply=5%). University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions 24

28 As expected, students who indicated they are not likely to apply to a polytechnic college or university are more likely than other students to choose a college without a polytechnic focus if choosing today (unlikely to apply=32% without polytechnic focus vs. likely to apply=11%). Likelihood of applying to a polytechnic institution - Parents Parents who indicated they are likely to encourage their son or daughter to apply to a polytechnic college or university are more likely than other parents to choose a college with a polytechnic focus for their son or daughter if choosing today (likely to apply=16% with polytechnic focus vs. unlikely to apply=0%). As anticipated, more parents who indicated they are not likely to encourage their son or daughter to apply to a polytechnic college or university than other parents would choose a college without a polytechnic focus if choosing today (unlikely to apply=19% without polytechnic focus vs. likely to apply=7%). 25 University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions

29 FIGURE 8 Q9. The mission statement I read to you earlier was for the University of Wisconsin - Stout. UW - Stout is considering adding the polytechnic designation to their institution. Based only on the name, which university would you be most likely to (encourage your son or daughter to) apply to: The University of Wisconsin- Stout 23% 45% The University of Wisconsin- Stout Institute of Technology 31% 37% The University of Wisconsin- Stout, Wisconsin's premiere polytechnic Institution The University of Wisconsin- Stout Polytechnic None 7% 6% 1% 6% 14% 16% Don't know 3% 11% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% Students (N=100) Parents (N=100) It was revealed to respondents that UW Stout is considering adding a polytechnic designation to their institution. Given this fact, students and parents were then asked which name would most encourage application. Based only on the name, more than four in ten (45%) students would be most likely to apply to The University of Wisconsin Stout, while three in ten (31%) would be most likely to apply to The University of Wisconsin Stout Institute of Technology (Figure 8). Parents preferences are reversed, with more than three in ten (37%) stating they would encourage their son or daughter to apply to The University of Wisconsin Stout Institute of Technology, with just over two in ten (23%) choosing The University of Wisconsin Stout. University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions 26

30 Other Findings Students vs. Parents Students are more likely than parents to have stated that they would be most likely to apply to The University of Wisconsin Stout (students=47% UW-Stout vs. parents=28%), while more parents stated that they would encourage their son or daughter to apply to The University of Wisconsin Stout Institute of Technology (parents=45% UW-Stout Institute of Technology vs. students=32%). University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions 27

31 Demographic Information FIGURE 9 Q10. What do you expect to be your college major? (Students N=100) Business management 24% Art Teacher education Physical sciences or engineering; biology, math, physics, chemistry, engineering Computer science Social sciences; psychology, anthropology, economics, political science, sociology Nursing Liberal arts; performing arts, English, humanities, history, philosophy Human development, counseling, vocational rehabilitation Communications; speech, media, etc. Technical trades 10% 9% 8% 6% 6% 4% 4% 3% 2% 1% Undecided 17% Other 6% 0% 20% 40% 60% 80% 100% Students were asked about their intended college major. About one-quarter (24%) of students expect to be in business management. Another one in ten (10%) indicated plans to major in art (Figure 9). Seventeen percent of students have not yet decided their college major. University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions 28

32 FIGURE 10 Gender of Respondent 100% 80% 73% 75% 60% 40% 27% 25% 20% 0% Male Students (N=100) Parents (N=100) Female More than seven in ten students (73%) and parents (75%) who responded to this survey are female (Figure 10). University of Wisconsin Stout 2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions 29

33 Appendix A: Verbatim Comments

34 University of Wisconsin-Stout Open-Ended Survey Comments Q1a. Which college are you planning on attending? (Students) University of Wisconsin-Whitewater. University of Wisconsin-Platteville. University of Wisconsin-Madison. University of Wisconsin-Stout. Winona State University-Winona, Minnesota. Senmiore Southwestern Technical. Marshfield Technical College. Minneapolis Community Technical College. Hibbing Community College-Minnesota.

35 Q1a. Which college are they planning on attending? (Parents) University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. Viterbo University, La Crosse, Wisconsin. University of Minnesota-Duluth. Loyola University-Chicago, Illinois. University of Wisconsin-Stout. University of Wisconsin-Stout. University of Wisconsin-Stout. University of Wisconsin-Stout. University of Wisconsin-Stout. University of Wisconsin-Stout. University of Wisconsin-Stout. University of Wisconsin-Stout. University of Wisconsin-Stout. University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. Indiana University-Bloomington, Indiana. University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. University of Wisconsin-Barron County. Olivet College. Minnesota State University-Mankato. Not really sure.

36 Q1b. To which colleges have your choices been narrowed? (Students) University of Minnesota-Duluth and Saint Cloud State University Minnesota. There are others, but they slipped my mind. University of Minnesota-Duluth. University of Minnesota-Duluth, University of St. Cloud and University of Minnesota-Morris. University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, University of Wisconsin-Stout and University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh. University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and Wisconsin Lutheran College. University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and University of Wisconsin-Stout. University of Wisconsin-Platteville and University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. University of Wisconsin-Madison and University of Minnesota-Twin Cities. University of Wisconsin-Madison, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and University of Minnesota. University of Wisconsin-Madison, Marquette University-Milwaukee and University of North Dakota-Grand Forks. University of Wisconsin-Stout, West Point-New York and Air Force Academy, Colorado. University of Wisconsin-Stout, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and University of Minnesota. University of Wisconsin-Stout, University of Wisconsin-Platteville and Michigan Technical College. University of Wisconsin-Stout and Institute of Production and Recording-Minneapolis, Minnesota. University of Wisconsin-Stout, University of Wisconsin-Green Bay and Marquette University-Milwaukee, Wisconsin. University of Wisconsin-Stout, University of Las Vegas-Nevada and University of New Orleans-Louisiana. University of Wisconsin-Stout and University of Minnesota-Duluth. Winona State University-Winona, Minnesota and University of Wisconsin-Stout.

37 Q1b. To which colleges have your choices been narrowed? (Students) University of Minnesota, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and University of Wisconsin-Stout. North Dakota State University, Concordia University-Minnesota and Minnesota State University-Moorhead. Saint Norbert College-De Pere, Wisconsin and University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. Saint Norbert College-De Pere, Wisconsin and University of Wisconsin-Madison. Northland College-Ashland, Wisconsin, Saint Olaf College-Northfield, Minnesota and Marian College-Fond Du Lac, Wisconsin. University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. St. Mary's University-Winona, Minnesota, College of Saint Benedict-Saint Joseph, Minnesota and University of Massachusetts-Amherst. University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and Wisconsin Indian Technical College. University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and University of Wisconsin-River Falls. Saint Cloud State University-Minnesota, University of Wisconsin and Milwaukee School of Engineering, Wisconsin. Saint Cloud State University Minnesota, Minnesota State University-Mankato and University of Wisconsin-Madison. University of Wisconsin and Winona State University-Winona, Minnesota. University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and University of Wisconsin-Green Bay. University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire. Brooks College-California, California State University and Daytona Beach Community College-Florida. Saint Cloud Tech, Saint Cloud State University-Minnesota and Chippewa Valley Technical College. Ferris State University-Big Rapids, Michigan, University of Wisconsin-Stout and University of Wisconsin-River Falls. University of St. Thomas, Minnesota and University of Wisconsin-Stout

38 Q1b. To which colleges have your choices been narrowed? (Students) University of Iowa-Dubuque, University of Wisconsin-Platteville and Loras College-Dubuque, Iowa. Michigan State and Grand Valley State University, Michigan. Northeast Iowa and University of Wisconsin-River Falls. University of Denver-Colorado and Aveda Institute of Minneapolis-Minnesota. Minnesota State University-Mankato, University of Wisconsin-Stout and Saint Cloud State University Minnesota. University of Oregon-Portland and New York University. University of Wisconsin-Manitowoc, University of Wisconsin-Stout and LTC- Menomonie Falls, Wisconsin.

39 Q1b. To which colleges have their choices been narrowed? (Parents) University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and University of Wisconsin-Madison. University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT). University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and University of Wisconsin-River Falls. University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Concordia-Minnesota and University of Wisconsin-Stout. University of Wisconsin-River Falls, University of Minnesota and maybe Hamline University-Saint Paul, Minnesota. University of Wisconsin-River Falls or Saint Olaf College-Northfield, Minnesota. University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and possibly Carroll College-Helena, Montana. University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, University of Wisconsin-Platteville and University of Wisconsin-Stout. University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee. University of Wisconsin-Platteville, Northwestern University-Evanston, Illinois. University of Wisconsin-Madison, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and University of Wisconsin-La Crosse. University of Wisconsin-Madison, University of Wisconsin-Platteville and University of Wisconsin- La Crosse. University of Wisconsin-Madison and University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point. University of Wisconsin-Madison, University of Wisconsin-Stout and University of Minnesota- Twin Cities. University of Wisconsin-Madison and University of Wisconsin-Stout. University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Winona State University-Winona, Minnesota and University of Wisconsin-Superior. University of Wisconsin-Stout, Inver Hills Community College-Inver Hills, Minnesota and Minnesota State University-Mankato. University of Wisconsin-Stout, University of Chicago and Savannah, New York Fashion Institute. Winona State University-Winona, Minnesota, North Dakota State University and Minnesota State University-Moorhead.