What is Guided Pathways?
California Community Colleges Guided Pathways reform is a statewide, student-centered approach that can dramatically increase the number of students earning community college credentials while closing equity gaps.
The Guided Pathways framework creates a highly structured approach to student success that provides all students with a set of clear course-taking patterns that promotes better enrollment decisions and prepares students for future success. The Guided Pathways framework also integrates support services in ways that make it easier for students to get the help they need during every step of their community college experience.
Drawing on research conducted by the Community College Research Center as well as the experience of several national organizations, the national Guided Pathways initiative led by the American Association of Community Colleges grouped the essential, evidence-based practices of Guided Pathways into four dimensions or “Four Pillars”:
-
Clarify the Path - Create clear curricular pathways for employment and further education.
-
Enter the Path - Help students choose and enter their pathway.
-
Stay on the Path - Help students stay on their selected path.
-
Ensure Learning - Ensure that learning is happening with intentional outcomes.
These pillars serve as an adaptable and informational framework for the statewide program.