This report by the AAUW Educational Foundation examines how and why women make changes in their lives through education.
Gaining a Foothold probes the decision making of three groups -- women who go directly from high school to college; women who go directly from high school to full-time work; and women who go from work back to postsecondary education. For each of the three groups, the study explores the motivations, obstacles, and support mechanisms that affect their critical decision, and compares them to the same factors as they affect men.
A rich study, Gaining a Foothold relies on both qualitative and quantitative methods. Qualitative results draw on responses from 10 focus groups conducted by Lake Snell Perry and Associates in fall 1998. Quantitative results are based on a national telephone survey of 1,070 respondents by DYG, Inc. in December 1998 and January 1999. The text is accompanied by numerous charts and graphs, as well as quotes from focus group participants and survey respondents.
The report includes suggestions for easing women’s educational decision making and providing better information about financial aid and careers, and increasing institutional flexibility.
Executive Summary (PDF) Purchase a print copy at ShopAAUW. (Cost: $6.49)
Questions? Comments? Please contact AAUW Research at foundation@aauw.org with any feedback or questions.
For press information, or to schedule an interview, visit the Newsroom or contact Catherine Hill at hillc@aauw.org or 202/728-7609.
Transitions Conferences
Many AAUW branches co-sponsor Transitions Conferences to help working women in their communities who are considering a return to school. The conferences draw on findings from Gaining a Foothold to offer women information and support on financial aid, study skills, and issues related to balancing school, work, and family. Local universities work with the branches in hosting the conferences. For information about a Transitions Conference in your community, contact AAUW at 202/785-7712 or e-mail program@aauw.org.
