Understanding the impact of the basic communication course: a longitudinal study of retention and academic performance

ABSTRACT This four-year longitudinal investigation (N = 5,347), based on institutional population records, explored the relationship between two basic communication course (BCC) formats, a first-year experience (FYE) course, college student retention, and academic performance. Analysis revealed that BCC completers were more likely to be retained and demonstrated a higher level of academic performance than those not completing a BCC. Findings held when compared with the overall institutional retention rate. Logistic regression indicated that hybrid BCC students were 2.40 times more likely to be retained; public-speaking students were 1.43 times more likely to be retained. Conditionally admitted BCC students who took the FYE were retained at a higher rate and demonstrated stronger academic performance than those completing the FYE only. Impact statistics for students in certain demographic groups was especially noteworthy: Black, Hispanic, commuter, and first-generation students. Implications for the BCC, our discipline, and for academic institutions are addressed.