This paper examines Howard University's Center for Academic Reinforcement (CAR), which provides college compensatory education to underprepared students. Research findings from CAR and the academic and non-academic factors related to students' successful completion of the program are discussed. The research findings reported include: (1) the…

Challenges and approaches for academic skills improvement programs for college students are discussed. Important prerequisites are a needs assessment and long-range plan and an academic skills improvement program based on theory and existing models. Identifying a set of supportive people with power and resources at an institution is also needed.…