Asha Savani
Pronouns: she/her/hers
Research Mentor(s): Paula Clasing, Ph.D. candidate
Research Mentor School/College/Department: Center for the Study of Higher and Postsecondary Education, School of Education
Presentation Date: Thursday, April 22, 2021
Session: Session 2 (11am – 11:50am)
Breakout Room: Room 4
Presenter: 1
Abstract
During the last decade, different free-tuition initiatives have been discussed and implemented around the world. Although empirical research on this topic is emerging, little is known about the formation of such initiatives, and its impact on student’s access and persistence and on institutional outcomes. This study contributes to the literature about free college by analyzing the case of Chile, a country that implemented such a policy in 2016. This case study will be a valuable contribution to the international comparative discussion of free college. This study analyzes the formation of the free-tuition program in Chile through newspaper articles and policy documents. It analyzes the effect on institutions, by reviewing changes in institutional revenues and student composition. By examining these trends, we are able to evaluate whether the free-tuition program is able to diversify the student body in participating institutions and examine how these universities have adapted to this new policy. Preliminary results are presented and implications are discussed.
Authors: Asha Savani, Juliana Martell, Paula Clasing
Research Method: Qualitative Study
