Digital Learning Opportunities for Educators
Hello, educators! On February 10, we hosted an engaging and informative session highlighting the Texas Transfer Framework and community college resources from Austin Community College (ACC). Staff from the Texas Higher Education Coordinating Board (THECB) and ACC shared insights on how these tools support student success across the state. Special guest Dr. Wynn Rosser, Commissioner and CEO of the THECB, provided an overview of how the THECB is expanding the reach of higher education in Texas, including tools for students and families to make data-informed decisions about what comes next in their educational journeys.
Dr. Wynn Rosser joined our session to share insights on emerging trends among transfer students across Texas and data surrounding workforce enrollment. One key takeaway was nearly 49% of transfer students have three or more courses denied when moving to a four-year institution, highlighting the importance of clear transfer pathways. Dr. Rosser also discussed the growing demand for high-value credentials in skilled trades, healthcare support, advanced manufacturing, information technology, and transportation, and how My Texas Future is helping students explore institutions and programs that support their journey toward these in-demand careers.
Texas Transfer Framework and Texas Direct:
THECB’s Dr. Emma Gelsinger, Senior Director of Academic and Health Affairs, discussed updates to the Texas Transfer Framework streamlining transfer pathways to save students and families time, money, and effort with Texas Direct. Texas Direct offers a more transparent and seamless transfer process across institutions using Texas Transfer Framework Tools such as the Lower-Division Academic Course Guide Manual, Texas Common Course Numbering System, Texas Core Curriculum, and Field of Study Curriculum. Students attending any public two-year institution automatically qualify to receive a Texas Direct Transfer associate degree when they complete both a field of study curriculum and a core curriculum.
The Community College Role in Bachelor's Degree Attainment:
ACC’s Transfer Resources Director, Renee Esparza, showcased community college data and resources to help students plan for transfer success. Esparza emphasized that understanding student motivations, future career goals, and being familiar with the transfer process is key to making the transfer process easy. Transfer guides can help identify which courses students can take at a community college for a specific major. These guides are created by a specific university and will include requirements for the university department/college, major admissions, lower-division courses, and university contact information. Along with transfer guides, transfer partnerships can benefit students and help them maximize transfer credit and cost savings. Below is an image of transfer partnership examples.
Texas OnCourse Academy Learning Community:
We have launched an exciting new initiative called the Texas OnCourse Academy Learning Community. This space is designed to connect educators and advance college and career readiness while using the Texas OnCourse Academy. Our goal is to foster connections among Texas educators to connect, collaborate, and grow collectively. Whether you're just getting started with the Texas OnCourse Academy or have been using it for years, the Academy Learning Community is designed with you in mind.
Interested in joining? Complete the short interest form to become part of the Texas OnCourse Academy Learning Community and stay informed about upcoming activities, discussions, and opportunities to collaborate with peers statewide.
Professional Learning Series and Tiny Takes:
If you missed the session, you can view a recording of Making Credit Count: Navigating The Texas Transfer Framework. Our next Professional Learning Series session will take place on March 10: We’ll discuss tips on how to use data strategically to increase college enrollment and close opportunity gaps. We also invite you to join our upcoming Tiny Take session on February 19, exploring how the My Texas Future platform empowers adult learners to find educational pathways and training programs that align with their personal and professional goals. We look forward to seeing you there!
