University of Wisconsin – Stout
Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
Prepared for:
University of Wisconsin – Stout
June 2006
University of Wisconsin – Stout
Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
Prepared for:
University of Wisconsin – Stout
Prepared by:
Anderson, Niebuhr & Associates, Inc.
Northpark Corporate Center
6 Pine Tree Drive
Suite 200
Arden Hills, MN 55112
(651) 486-8712
June 2006
University of Wisconsin - Stout
Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
TABLE OF CONTENTS
Conclusions and Recommendations........................................................................... 1
Background and Purpose............................................................................................. 4
Research Method .......................................................................................................... 5
Summary of Findings.................................................................................................... 7
I.
College Planning ................................................................................................. 7
II.
Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions – Unaided Definition .............................. 12
III.
Interest in Polytechnic Institutions – Aided Definition ......................................... 19
IV.
Demographic Information................................................................................... 28
Appendices
Appendix A: Verbatim Comments
Appendix B: Student and Parent Questionnaires
Conclusions & Recommendations
This section of the report provides conclusions and recommendations based on the
results of the study. Conclusions from the data are presented first, followed by
recommendations (⇒) pertaining to the conclusions.
College Planning
♦ Most students and parents know which college will be attended or have narrowed
down their choices; however, nearly twice as many students as parents reported
that they are just starting to think about choosing a college.
♦ Among respondents who have chosen a college or university and those that have
narrowed their choices, many have selected a University of Wisconsin institution. In
addition, many have narrowed their choices to primarily public colleges.
♦ Most students who selected a college chose it for the array of academic programs
offered there. In contrast, parents whose son or daughter has chosen a college most
frequently said the college was selected because a specific program is offered there.
⇒ Given that academic programs are an important factor when choosing a college
or university, emphasizing the variety of programs offered at the University of
Wisconsin – Stout would be beneficial.
⇒ If a polytechnic designation is adopted, care should be exercised to emphasize
the positive aspects of such a designation without conveying a limitation on the
variety of academic programs offered.
Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions – Unaided Definition
♦ Prior to the survey, a majority of students and nearly half of parents could not offer
a definition of what the term “polytechnic” means to them. However, among those
who offered a definition, most believed it to be a school that offers many options in
technical sciences. A misconception among some people in both groups is that it is a
two-year or technical school.
♦ When asked if select characteristics accurately describe a polytechnic institution,
students are more likely than parents to believe that a polytechnic institution offers
both undergraduate and graduate degrees and that is it a two-year school. However,
parents are more likely to state that they are unsure if these qualities apply to a
polytechnic institution. In addition, between one- and two-thirds of all respondents do
not know if any of the statements accurately describe a polytechnic institution.
♦ Similarly, when respondents were asked whether they agree or disagree with various
statements about polytechnics, more than one-third of students and more than half
of parents are unable to rate any of the statements. However, more than six in ten
students agree that polytechnic institutions provide state-of-the-art technology and
are leaders in integrating technology into teaching and learning.
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University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
♦ Students who said they are likely to apply to a polytechnic institution and those who
would choose a college or university with a polytechnic focus are more likely than
other students to agree that going to this type of institution would increase the
likelihood of finding a high-paying job after graduation.
♦ In addition, those who would choose a college with a polytechnic focus are also more
likely to agree that such schools provide state-of-the-art technology and are leaders
in integrating technology into teaching and learning.
♦ Finally, when the current mission statement of UW – Stout was read to them, most
respondents believe it would apply to a polytechnic institution.
⇒ Overwhelmingly, students and parents do not know what the term “polytechnic”
means nor do they know specific characteristics of this type of institution. If UW –
Stout adopts a polytechnic designation, considerable effort should be placed on
informing the public of what this designation will mean for the school and clearing
any misconceptions that this will make the institution a technical school.
⇒ Because most people do not have an existing image of what a “polytechnic”
school is, UW – Stout should recognize that it has an opportunity to create an
image through carefully designed and executed information efforts, education,
and media campaigns. Such efforts should emphasize the benefits of a
“polytechnic” school without sacrificing any of the positive aspects of UW –
Stout’s current image.
⇒ Adding a polytechnic designation to the name will not necessarily confuse people
about the mission of UW – Stout. The polytechnic designation is seen as
consistent with the current mission statement.
Interest in Polytechnic Institutions – Aided Definition
♦ More than six in ten respondents said they are at least somewhat likely to apply, or
encourage their son or daughter to apply, to a polytechnic institution after hearing the
definition. Conversely, about one-third are not likely to apply to such an institution.
♦ When respondents who are likely to apply to a polytechnic college or university were
asked why, the most common reasons given include:
⇒ Sounds like a good school or approach to learning
⇒ Sounds like a good fit for the student’s interests
⇒ Variety of classes and degrees offered there
♦ Reasons for not applying to a polytechnic college or university include having other
plans or not fitting their (son/daughter’s) interest, and a lack of knowledge about what
a polytechnic is.
♦ Most respondents reported that a polytechnic designation does not make a
difference in their choice of college or university. Only one in ten would specifically
choose a college with a polytechnic focus if making the choice today, and nearly two
in ten students would choose a school without this focus.
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2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
♦ Based only on the name of the institution, students are most likely to state that they
would choose to apply to the University of Wisconsin – Stout, while parents are most
likely to say they would encourage their son or daughter to apply to the University of
Wisconsin – Stout Institute of Technology.
⇒ Informing students and parents of programs offered at UW – Stout and the
characteristics of a polytechnic institution may increase the likelihood of them
applying to the institution. However, offering programs that are desirable to
students should be the primary goal since this is the reason most students select
a college or university.
⇒ By adopting a polytechnic designation, it should be recognized that certain
students will be drawn to the school, while others will be deterred from applying;
and for most, it will not impact their college choice.
⇒ Adding “Institute of Technology” to the current University of Wisconsin – Stout
would be the most preferential name, if such a change is made; however, most
students would choose the current name.
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University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
Background & Purpose
The University of Wisconsin – Stout wished to conduct a research
study to assess the current level of awareness and the image of
polytechnic institutions among students and parents who had
inquired at the University. This study was conducted to help
determine the impact adopting a polytechnic designation would
have on UW – Stout and, more specifically, to learn the following:
♦ Unaided perceptions of polytechnic institutions
♦ Interest in polytechnic institutions with aided definitions
♦ Preference of name designation for UW – Stout
The University of Wisconsin – Stout retained the independent
market research firm of Anderson, Niebuhr & Associates, Inc. to
conduct this research. The following report summarizes the results
obtained from high school juniors and parents.
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University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
Research Method
This section of the report provides a description of the research
method used to conduct the survey, including a description of the
population and sample, questionnaire design, data collection, and
data analysis.
Population
and Sample
The population surveyed includes college-bound eleventh grade
students who had inquired at UW – Stout in the past and parents
of similar students. Anderson, Niebuhr & Associates, Inc. obtained
a list of qualified students from the University of Wisconsin –
Stout. From this list, Anderson-Niebuhr drew a random sample of
100 high school juniors and 100 parents of high school juniors.
Questionnaire
Design
Working with the University of Wisconsin – Stout, a questionnaire
for students and a questionnaire for parents were developed. The
questionnaires were pretested with 10 parents and 10 students.
The results of the pretests were incorporated into final versions of
the questionnaires, copies of which can be found in Appendix B.
Data
Collection
The
surveys
were
conducted
using
Anderson-Niebuhr’s
established telephone survey methodology. Interviews were
conducted using Computer Assisted Telephone Interviewing
(CATI) software. Telephone interviewing occurred for parents and
students from April 21 through May 14, 2006. A total of 200
surveys were completed. The response rates within the student
group, parent group, and overall are presented in the following
table:
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University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
Number of
Completed
Interviews
100
100
200
Population
Students
Parents
Overall
Response
Rate
87%
76%
81%
Accuracy at a
95%
Confidence
Interval
± 9%
± 9%
± 6%
Data
Analyses
Each completed questionnaire was reviewed for completeness
and consistency prior to computer analysis. In consultation with
University of Wisconsin – Stout representatives, Anderson Niebuhr defined the analyses to be performed. Anderson Niebuhr's on-site computer facilities and computer programs
contained in the Statistical Package for the Social Sciences
(SPSS/Windows) were used to conduct the analyses.
Descriptive statistics were prepared for all items. Statistical
comparisons were also conducted to find differences in responses
for all closed-ended questions between the following groups:
♦ Students and parents
♦ Those likely to apply to a polytechnic institution and those not
likely to apply
♦ Those who would choose a college with a polytechnic focus
and those who would choose one without
Only
those
comparisons
showing
statistically
significant
differences are mentioned in this report, under the heading “Other
Findings.”
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University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
Summary of Findings
This section of the report presents findings for high school juniors and parents of high
school juniors. Results are displayed in figures, followed by bulleted points describing
the major findings. All statistically significant differences are reported under the heading
“Other Findings.”
College Planning
FIGURE 1
Q1. Which statement most accurately describes your
(son/daughter's) college planning at this time?
Students (N=100)
Parents (N=100)
Choice is narrowed
to a few colleges
Choice is narrowed
to a few colleges
45%
Knows which
college will be
attended
Knows which
college will be
attended
49%
21%
9%
2%
2%
3%
41%
Just starting to
think seriously
about choosing a
college
Will probably
not attend a
4-year
college
Not thinking
about college
yet
6%
22%
Just starting to
think seriously
about choosing
a college
Will probably
not attend a
4-year college
Not thinking
about college
yet
♦ Students and parents were asked to describe the current state of their
(son/daughter’s) college planning. While two in ten (21%) parents stated that their
son or daughter knows which college will be attended, only about one in ten (9%)
students indicated they know (Figure 1).
♦ In addition, about half (49%) of parents and nearly as many (45%) students
indicated that the choice is narrowed to a few colleges.
♦ Finally, while four in ten (41%) students stated that they are just starting to think
seriously about choosing a college, about two in ten (22%) parents believe this is
the current state of their son/daughter’s college planning.
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University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
Other Findings
Students vs. Parents
◊ More parents than students believe the student knows which college will be
attended (parents=21% vs. students=9%).
◊
In contrast, more students than parents believe the student is just starting to think
seriously about choosing a college (students=41% vs. parents=22%).
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University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
FIGURE 1A
Q1A. Which college are you planning on attending?*
College
University of Wisconsin-Stout
University of Wisconsin-Barron County
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire
University of Wisconsin-Lacrosse
University of Wisconsin-Madison
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee
University of Wisconsin-Platteville
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater
Viterbo University La Crosse, Wisconsin
Minnesota Public 4-year or higher campus
Technical or Community Colleges
Other Private 4-year or higher campus (not in WI or MN)
Don’t know
Number of
Students
(N=9)
1
1
1
1
1
4
-
Number of
Parents
(N=21)
9
1
1
1
1
1
1
3
2
1
*Asked only of respondents who stated they know which college they (their son or daughter) are
going to attend. Numbers instead of percentages are displayed due to small sample sizes.
♦ Respondents who said they know which college they or their son or daughter will
attend were asked to identify the chosen institution. Only nine students stated that
they know which college they are going to attend (Figure 1A). Four indicated they are
planning to attend a higher education institution in Wisconsin, four plan to attend a
technical or community college, and one student will attend a four-year college or
university in Minnesota.
♦ Among the 21 parents who stated that their son or daughter knows which college
will be attended, nine said the University of Wisconsin – Stout. Further, six indicated
that their son or daughter is planning to attend a different school in Wisconsin and
three said a public institution in Minnesota.
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University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
FIGURE 1B
Q2. Why did you choose this college or university?*
Reason
The array of academic programs
offered
at the
institution
A
specific
program
offered at the
institution
Geographic location
Reputation of the institution
Recommendations of family/friends
Affordable cost/financial aid offered
or
scholarship received
Other
Number of Students
(N=9)
First
All
mentioned mentioned
3
3
Number of Parents
(N=21)
First
All
mentioned mentioned
3
6
1
1
7
9
1
1
3
1
1
3
3
1
1
1
5
6
1
3
1
10
*Asked only of respondents who stated they knew which college they (their son or daughter) are
going to attend. Numbers rather than percentages are displayed due to small sample size.
♦ Students and parents who said they know which college will be attended were next
asked why they chose that school. Three of the nine students who said they know
which college they are going to attend chose that college for the array of academic
programs offered. In addition, a specific program offered, recommendations of
family/friends, and affordable cost are reasons mentioned by one student each
(Figure 1B).
♦ Nine parents who stated their son or daughter knows which college will be attended
said that the college was chosen because a specific program is offered there. The
array of academic programs and the geographic location were mentioned by six
parents each.
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University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
FIGURE 1C
Q1B. To which colleges have your choices been narrowed?*
College
University of Wisconsin-Stout
University of Wisconsin campus (excluding Stout)
Other Wisconsin 4 year or higher campus
Minnesota Public 4-year or higher campus
Minnesota Private 4-year or higher campus
Technical colleges
Other Public 4-year or higher campus (not in WI or MN)
Other Private 4-year or higher campus (not in WI or MN)
Don't know
Refused
Percent of
Students
(N=45)
33%
84%
18%
47%
11%
16%
31%
9%
-
Percent of
Parents
(N=49)
18%
80%
12%
47%
20%
10%
24%
8%
8%
6%
*Asked only of respondents who stated their (son/daughter’s) choices have been narrowed down
to a few colleges. Respondents could offer more than one response.
♦ Those who have not decided where to go but who have narrowed down their choices
were asked to name the colleges being considered. One-third (33%) of students
stated that the University of Wisconsin – Stout is among their list of college choices
and more than eight in ten (84%) indicated that another University of Wisconsin
campus is on the list (Figure 1C).
♦ In addition, nearly one-half (47%) of students included a Minnesota public college in
their choices and three in ten (31%) indicated a public 4-year college outside of
Wisconsin or Minnesota.
♦ In comparison, fewer than two in ten (18%) parents included the University of
Wisconsin – Stout among their son/daughter’s choices and eight in ten (80%) stated
that at least one other college in the University of Wisconsin system is an option.
♦ Nearly one-half (47%) of parents stated that a public college in Minnesota was on
their son/daughter’s short list and about one-quarter (24%) mentioned a public
college outside of Wisconsin or Minnesota.
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University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions – Unaided Definition
FIGURE 2
Q3. What does the term “polytechnic college or university” mean to you?*
Code
1
7
9
2
6
4
98
Definition
School that offers many options in technical
sciences
Technology education
Place to build future
Two year/technical school
School concentrated on science/engineering/math
College or university with a variety of fields
Don't know
Percent of
Students
(N=100)
Percent of
Parents
(N=100)
7%
5%
4%
3%
1%
1%
71%
22%
1%
1%
10%
9%
4%
48%
*Only responses mentioned by at least four percent of either students or parents are listed.
Respondents could offer more than one response.
♦ All respondents were asked what the term “polytechnic college or university” means
to them. About seven in ten (71%) students and almost half (48%) of parents said
they don’t know (Figure 2).
♦ While very few students were able to describe what “polytechnic” means to them,
seven percent described it as a school offering many options in technical sciences
and five percent described it as technology education.
♦ More than two in ten (22%) parents described a polytechnic college or university as
a school that offers many options in technical sciences. One in ten (10%) parents
believe it is a two-year or technical school.
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University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
FIGURE 3
Q4. Please tell me if you believe these statements accurately
describe a polytechnic institution or if you are unsure:
(Students N=100; Parents N=100)
50%
A polytechnic institution
is a technical school
39%
The academic programs
offered at a polytechnic
institution include both
undergraduate degrees
and graduate degrees
29%
0%
46%
48%
5%
5%
66%
46%
30%
40%
54%
25%
20%
61%
40%
Yes
60%
No
Parents
Students
Students
Parents
46%
26%
Students
Parents
14%
16%
29%
13%
36%
15%
47%
A polytechnic institution
offers all types of degrees
A polytechnic institution
is a two-year school
14%
Students
Parents
80%
100%
Unsure
♦ Students and parents were asked whether they believe several statements
accurately describe a polytechnic institution. More than four in ten students and
about three in ten or more parents believe the following statements accurately
describe a polytechnic institution (Figure 3):
⇒ A polytechnic institution is a technical school (students=50% and parents=39%
yes)
⇒ The academic programs offered at a polytechnic institution include both
undergraduate degrees and graduate degrees (47% and 29%, respectively)
⇒ A polytechnic institution offers all types of degrees (46% and 30%)
♦ One quarter each of students (25%) and parents (26%) do not believe that a
polytechnic institution is a two-year school.
♦ However, at least four in ten students and more than half of parents are unsure if
the following statements accurately describe a polytechnic institution:
⇒ The academic programs offered at a polytechnic institution include both
undergraduate degrees and graduate degrees (students=48% and parents=66%
unsure)
⇒ A polytechnic institution is a two-year school (46% and 61%, respectively)
⇒ A polytechnic institution offers all types of degrees (40% and 54%)
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University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
♦ In addition, more than one-third (36%) of students and more than four in ten (46%)
parents are unsure if a polytechnic institution is a technical school.
Other Findings
Students vs. Parents
◊ Students are more likely than parents to believe the following statements accurately
describe a polytechnic institution:
⇒ The academic programs offered at a polytechnic institution include both
undergraduate degrees and graduate degrees (students=47% yes vs.
parents=29%)
⇒ A polytechnic institution is a two-year school (29% vs. 13%, respectively)
◊
In contrast, more parents stated that they are unsure if the following statements
accurately describe a polytechnic institution:
⇒ The academic programs offered at a polytechnic institution include both
undergraduate degrees and graduate degrees (parents=66% unsure vs.
students=48%)
⇒ A polytechnic institution is a two-year school (61% vs. 46%, respectively)
Choosing a polytechnic focused college - Students
◊ Students who stated they would choose a college or university with a polytechnic
focus are more likely than other students to believe that the academic programs
offered at a polytechnic institution include both undergraduate degrees and graduate
degrees (with=70% vs. without=58%).
◊
However, more students who said they would choose a college or university without
a polytechnic focus are unsure if a polytechnic institution offers both undergraduate
and graduate degrees (without=42% vs. with=10%).
Choosing a polytechnic focused college - Parents
◊ Parents who stated they would choose a college or university without a polytechnic
focus are more likely than other parents to believe that the academic programs
offered at a polytechnic institution include both undergraduate degrees and graduate
degrees (without=64% vs. with=18%).
◊
Furthermore, parents who stated they would choose a college or university with a
polytechnic focus are more likely to be unsure if a polytechnic institution offers both
undergraduate and graduate degrees (with=82% vs. without=18%).
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University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
FIGURE 4
Q5. Please tell me if you agree or disagree with the following statements
about polytechnic colleges or universities:
(Students N=100; Parents N=100)
A polytechnic institution
8%
provides state-of-the-art
technology to their
4%
students
56%
44%
Polytechnic institutions
8%
are leaders in integrating
technology into teaching
4%
and learning
Going to a polytechnic
institution will increase the
likelihood of finding a
high-paying job after
graduation
35%
16%
Students
62%
1%
Parents
58%
Students
70%
2%
20%
Strongly agree
Parents
47%
22%
17%
9%
10%
Students
55%
18%
32%
24%
40%
5%
40%
Agree
60%
Disagree
Students
Parents
13%
34%
The academic programs
offered at a polytechnic 3%
institution focus primarily
on science and 3%
engineering
0%
59%
2%
Students
Parents
35%
2%
42%
6%
In general, the quality of
education offered at a 3%
traditional institution is
better than at a 3%
polytechnic institution
51%
1%
55%
5%
34%
2%
Parents
80%
Strongly disagree
100%
Unsure
♦ Students and parents were asked their level of agreement with several statements
about polytechnic institutions. More than six in ten students strongly agree or agree
with the following (Figure 4):
⇒ A polytechnic institution provides state-of-the-art technology to their students
(64% strongly agree/agree)
⇒ Polytechnic institutions are leaders in integrating technology into teaching and
learning (63%)
♦ Similarly, about four in ten parents strongly agree or agree with the following
statements about polytechnic institutions:
⇒ A polytechnic institution provides state-of-the-art technology to their students
(48% strongly agree/agree)
⇒ Going to a polytechnic institution will increase the likelihood of finding a highpaying job after graduation (40%)
⇒ Polytechnic institutions are leaders in integrating technology into teaching and
learning (39%)
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University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
♦ The percentages of students and parents who strongly agree or agree that the
quality of education offered at a traditional institution is better than at a polytechnic
institution (students=20% and parents=12%) is similar to the percentage that
disagree or strongly disagree (students=22% and parents=18%).
♦ However, there is a lack of knowledge in general about polytechnic colleges and
universities among students and parents. More than one-third of students and
more than one-half of parents said they are unsure about all five statements.
Other Findings
Students vs. Parents
◊ More students than parents strongly agree or agree that polytechnic institutions are
leaders in integrating technology into teaching and learning (students=63% strongly
agree/agree vs. parents=39%), while more parents are unsure (parents=59%
unsure vs. students=35%).
Likelihood of applying to a polytechnic institution - Students
◊ More students who indicated they are likely to apply to a polytechnic college or
university than other students strongly agree or agree that going to a polytechnic
institution will increase the likelihood of finding a high-paying job after graduation
(likely to apply=59% agree/strongly agree vs. unlikely to apply=27%).
◊
In contrast, more students who indicated they are not likely to apply to a polytechnic
college or university are unsure if going to a polytechnic institution will increase the
likelihood of finding a high-paying job after graduation (unlikely to apply=51% unsure
vs. likely to apply=33%).
Choosing a polytechnic focused college - Students
◊ Students who stated they would choose a college or university with a polytechnic
focus are more likely than other students to strongly agree or agree with the
following statements regarding polytechnic institutions:
⇒ A polytechnic institution provides state-of-the-art technology to their students
(with=100% strongly agree/agree vs. without=58%)
⇒ Polytechnic institutions are leaders in integrating technology into teaching and
learning (90% vs. 63%, respectively)
⇒ Going to a polytechnic institution will increase the likelihood of finding a highpaying job after graduation (80% vs. 42%)
◊
However, students who stated they would choose a college or university with a
polytechnic focus are more likely than other students to disagree that the academic
programs offered at a polytechnic institution focus primarily on science and
engineering (with=50% disagree vs. without=5%).
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University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
FIGURE 4A
Q5. Please tell me if you agree or disagree with the following statements
about polytechnic colleges or universities:
A polytechnic institution
provides state-of-the-art
technology to their
students
1
1
3.09
3.06
Polytechnic institutions
are leaders in integrating
technology into teaching
and learning
3.09
3.05
Going to a polytechnic
institution will increase the
likelihood of finding a
high-paying job after
graduation
2.87
3.02
The academic programs
offered at a polytechnic
institution focus primarily
on science and
engineering
In general, the quality of
education offered at a
traditional institution is
better than at a
polytechnic institution
2.72
2.76
2.55
2.43
Disagree
Students (N = 65)
Parents (N = 41)
Students (N = 60)
Parents (N = 45)
Students (N = 53)
Parents (N = 38)
Parents (N = 30)
Agree
Mean Rating
Parents (N = 49)
Students (N = 42)
1
1
Strongly
Disagree
Students (N = 66)
Strongly
Agree
♦ Mean ratings were calculated for parents and students regarding their agreement
with the five statements about polytechnic colleges or universities. The results are
shown in Figure 4A, where a mean rating of 1.0 indicated they strongly disagree and
4.0 means they strongly agree with the statement. Respondents who indicated they
were unsure about the statements are excluded from this analysis.
♦ On average, both students and parents agree that polytechnic colleges provide
state-of-the-art technology to their students (students=3.09 and parents=3.06) and
are leaders in integrating technology into teaching and learning (3.09 and 3.05,
respectively).
♦ There is less agreement regarding whether the quality of education offered at a
traditional institution is better than at a polytechnic institution (students=2.55 and
parents=2.43).
♦ However, it is important to note that less than half of parents and two-thirds or fewer
of students were able to rate any of the statements.
17
University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
FIGURE 5
Q6. There is a University in the Midwest thinking about becoming a
Polytechnic Institution. The current mission statement for this school is:
"Our institution has a variety of programs leading to professional careers focused on the
needs of society, which are adapted and modified as the needs of society change. We
offer an approach to learning that combines theory, practice, and experimentation."
Do you believe that this mission statement would apply to
a polytechnic institution?
100%
92%
77%
80%
60%
40%
15%
20%
8%
8%
0%
0%
Yes
No
Students
(N=100)
Don't know
Parents
(N=100)
♦ Respondents were read the mission statement for a university in the Midwest and
were asked if they believe such a mission would apply to a polytechnic institution. As
shown in Figure 5, more than nine in ten (92%) students and more than seven in ten
(77%) parents believe the mission statement does apply to a polytechnic institution.
18
University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
Interest in Polytechnic Institutions - Aided Definition
FIGURE 6
Q7. A polytechnic institution offers a broad array of both undergraduate and graduate
programs. Polytechnics have strength in the areas of science and technology, and
embrace an educational philosophy that blends theory and practice. Polytechnics
support a strong technology infrastructure and are among the leaders in integrating
technology into teaching and learning.
Given this definition, how likely would you be to (encourage your son or daughter to)
apply to a polytechnic college or university?
Students
(N=100)
9%
Parents
(N=100)
54%
14%
0%
29%
55%
20%
Very likely
22%
40%
60%
Somewhat likely
Not very likely
80%
8%
9%
100%
Not at all likely
♦ More than six in ten students (63%) and parents (69%) would be very or somewhat
likely to (encourage their son or daughter to) apply to a polytechnic college or
university based on the definition given (Figure 6).
♦ Conversely, about one-third of both students (37%) and parents (31%) are not very
likely or not at all likely to (encourage their son or daughter to) apply.
19
University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
FIGURE 6A
Q7A. Why is it that you would be “very likely” to (encourage your son or daughter
to) apply to a polytechnic college or university?*
Code
4
5
19
20
6
7
15
98
Reason
Sounds like a good school or approach
Sounds like a good fit for the student –
science/technology/computers
If it offers classes in the field of interest/Depends
on career choice
It's like joining something that is going to be your
major
Would make the student very marketable
Depends on the cost
I don't believe in the traditional college
Don't know/Still not sure what polytechnic is
Number of
Students
(N=9)
5
Number of
Parents
(N=14)
1
1
7
1
-
1
-
1
4
1
1
-
*Respondents could offer more than one response. Numbers rather than percentages are
displayed due to small sample size.
♦ Students who are very likely to apply to a polytechnic institution, as well as parents
who said they are very likely to encourage their son or daughter to apply, were asked
to share their reasons for this decision. Of the nine students that stated they are
very likely to apply, five said it is because it sounds like a good school or approach
(Figure 6A).
♦ Seven out of the 14 parents responding to the question indicated that they would be
very likely to encourage their son or daughter to apply to a polytechnic college
because this type of institution would be a good fit for the student’s interests. Another
four parents said they feel this type of education would make the student very
marketable.
20
University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
FIGURE 6B
Q7B. Why is it that you would be “somewhat likely” to (encourage your son or
daughter to) apply to a polytechnic college or university?*
Code
5
4
11
17
3
19
6
22
1
7
12
2
8
13
16
98
Reason
Sounds like a good fit for the student –
science/technology/computers
Sounds like a good school or approach
Variety of classes offered/Variety of degrees
offered
Student doesn’t know what they want to do yet
Don't know enough about it/Want to learn more
about it
If it offers classes in the field of interest/Depends
on career choice
Would make the student very marketable
Technology is important/Society has lots of
technology
Already have plans/Not student’s interest
Depends on the cost
Location
It's the student’s decision
Want student to consider all options
Don’t like the term/Don’t understand term
Many colleges now that fall under that category
Don't know/Still not sure what polytechnic is
Number of
Students
(N=54)
Number of
Parents
(N=55)
13
4
9
11
8
2
6
1
4
7
3
9
3
7
3
-
2
2
1
6
2
3
2
6
4
1
1
2
*Respondents could offer more than one response. Numbers rather than percentages are
displayed due to small sample size.
♦ The most common reason given by students who stated they are somewhat likely to
apply to a polytechnic is because it sounds like it would be a good fit for their
interests (13 students) (Figure 6B). Nine students think it sounds like a good school,
eight mentioned the variety of classes/degrees offered, and six students are only
somewhat likely because they are not yet certain what they want to do.
♦ Eleven parents indicated that they would be somewhat likely to encourage their son
or daughter because they feel a polytechnic sounds like a good school or approach,
and nine parents stated that it depends if the school offers programs in their
son/daughter’s area of interest. Seven parents each indicated that they want to learn
more about this type of institution, and that they feel this type of education would
make their son or daughter very marketable.
21
University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
FIGURE 6C
Q7C. Why is it that you would be “not very likely” to (encourage your son or
daughter to) apply to a polytechnic college or university?*
Code
1
3
19
12
17
18
21
2
4
10
14
98
Reason
Already have plans/Not student’s interest
Don't know enough about it/Want to learn more
about it
If it offers classes in the field of interest/Depends
on career choice
Location
Student doesn’t know what they want to do yet
Unsure if housing is offered
Prefer travel schools and technical schools
It's the student’s decision
Sounds like a good school or approach
Student will not go unless they can play hockey
there
Hoped it was a college that helps with the learning
disabled
Don't know/Still not sure what polytechnic is
Number of
Students
(N=29)
20
Number of
Parents
(N=22)
12
4
3
1
1
1
1
1
1
-
3
1
-
1
-
1
1
1
*Respondents could offer more than one response. Numbers rather than percentages are
displayed due to small sample size.
♦ Twenty students stated that it is not very likely that they will apply to a polytechnic
college because they already have plans or the type of school does not fit their
interest (Figure 6C). Twelve parents said they are not very likely to encourage their
son or daughter to attend for this reason.
22
University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
FIGURE 6D
Q7D. Why is it that you would be “not at all likely” to (encourage your son or
daughter to) apply to a polytechnic college or university?*
Code
1
3
13
98
Reason
Already have plans/Not student’s interest
Don't know enough about it/Want to learn more
about it
Don’t like the term/Don’t understand term
Don't know/Still not sure what polytechnic is
Number of
Students
(N=8)
6
Number of
Parents
(N=9)
5
1
2
0
1
1
1
*Respondents could offer more than one response. Again, numbers rather than percentages are
displayed due to small sample size.
♦ Only eight students indicated that they are not at all likely to apply to a polytechnic
college and nine parents said they are not at all likely to encourage their son or
daughter too apply. Of these, six students and five parents stated that it is because
they already have plans or it does not fit their interest (Figure 6D).
23
University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
FIGURE 7
Q8. Today, if you were to choose a college or university (for your son or
daughter) to attend, would you choose a college or university with a
polytechnic focus, a college or university without a polytechnic focus, or
does it not make a difference?
100%
78%
80%
71%
60%
40%
20%
19%
10%
11%
11%
0%
College or university
with a
polytechnic focus
College or university
without a
polytechnic focus
Students
(N=100)
Does not
make a difference
Parents
(N=100)
♦ As shown in Figure 7, students and parents were asked if they would choose a
school with a polytechnic focus if they were choosing today. More than seven in ten
students (71%) and parents (78%) stated that a college’s polytechnic focus would
not make a difference in their selection.
♦ One in ten students (10%) and parents (11%) would choose a college with a
polytechnic focus and about two in ten (19%) students and one in ten (11%)
parents would choose a college without a polytechnic focus.
Other Findings
Likelihood of applying to a polytechnic institution - Students
◊ Students who indicated they are likely to apply to a polytechnic college or university
are more likely than other students to choose a college with a polytechnic focus if
they were choosing today (likely to apply=13% with polytechnic focus vs. unlikely to
apply=5%).
24
University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
◊
As expected, students who indicated they are not likely to apply to a polytechnic
college or university are more likely than other students to choose a college without
a polytechnic focus if choosing today (unlikely to apply=32% without polytechnic
focus vs. likely to apply=11%).
Likelihood of applying to a polytechnic institution - Parents
◊ Parents who indicated they are likely to encourage their son or daughter to apply to
a polytechnic college or university are more likely than other parents to choose a
college with a polytechnic focus for their son or daughter if choosing today (likely to
apply=16% with polytechnic focus vs. unlikely to apply=0%).
◊
As anticipated, more parents who indicated they are not likely to encourage their
son or daughter to apply to a polytechnic college or university than other parents
would choose a college without a polytechnic focus if choosing today (unlikely to
apply=19% without polytechnic focus vs. likely to apply=7%).
25
University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
FIGURE 8
Q9. The mission statement I read to you earlier was for the University of
Wisconsin - Stout. UW - Stout is considering adding the polytechnic
designation to their institution. Based only on the name, which university
would you be most likely to (encourage your son or daughter to) apply to:
45%
The University of WisconsinStout
23%
31%
The University of WisconsinStout Institute of Technology
37%
14%
The University of WisconsinStout, Wisconsin's premiere
polytechnic Institution
7%
6%
The University of WisconsinStout Polytechnic
16%
1%
None
6%
3%
Don't know
0%
11%
20%
40%
Students
(N=100)
60%
80%
100%
Parents
(N=100)
♦ It was revealed to respondents that UW – Stout is considering adding a polytechnic
designation to their institution. Given this fact, students and parents were then
asked which name would most encourage application. Based only on the name,
more than four in ten (45%) students would be most likely to apply to The University
of Wisconsin – Stout, while three in ten (31%) would be most likely to apply to The
University of Wisconsin – Stout Institute of Technology (Figure 8).
♦ Parents preferences are reversed, with more than three in ten (37%) stating they
would encourage their son or daughter to apply to The University of Wisconsin –
Stout Institute of Technology, with just over two in ten (23%) choosing The University
of Wisconsin – Stout.
26
University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
Other Findings
Students vs. Parents
◊ Students are more likely than parents to have stated that they would be most likely
to apply to The University of Wisconsin – Stout (students=47% UW-Stout vs.
parents=28%), while more parents stated that they would encourage their son or
daughter to apply to The University of Wisconsin – Stout Institute of Technology
(parents=45% UW-Stout Institute of Technology vs. students=32%).
27
University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
Demographic Information
FIGURE 9
Q10. What do you expect to be your college major?
(Students N=100)
24%
Business management
10%
Art
9%
Teacher education
Physical sciences or engineering;
biology, math, physics, chemistry,
engineering
8%
Computer science
6%
Social sciences; psychology,
anthropology, economics, political
science, sociology
6%
Nursing
4%
Liberal arts; performing arts, English,
humanities, history, philosophy
4%
Human development, counseling,
vocational rehabilitation
Communications; speech, media, etc.
Technical trades
3%
2%
1%
17%
Undecided
Other
0%
6%
20%
40%
60%
80%
100%
♦ Students were asked about their intended college major. About one-quarter (24%)
of students expect to be in business management. Another one in ten (10%)
indicated plans to major in art (Figure 9).
♦ Seventeen percent of students have not yet decided their college major.
28
University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
FIGURE 10
Gender of Respondent
100%
80%
75%
73%
60%
40%
27%
25%
20%
0%
Male
Female
Students
(N=100)
Parents
(N=100)
♦ More than seven in ten students (73%) and parents (75%) who responded to this
survey are female (Figure 10).
29
University of Wisconsin – Stout
2006 Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
Appendix A:
Verbatim Comments
University of Wisconsin-Stout
Open-Ended Survey Comments
Q1a. Which college are you planning on attending? (Students)
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater.
University of Wisconsin-Platteville.
University of Wisconsin-Madison.
University of Wisconsin-Stout.
Winona State University-Winona, Minnesota.
Senmiore Southwestern Technical.
Marshfield Technical College.
Minneapolis Community Technical College.
Hibbing Community College-Minnesota.
Q1a. Which college are they planning on attending? (Parents)
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities.
Viterbo University, La Crosse, Wisconsin.
University of Minnesota-Duluth.
Loyola University-Chicago, Illinois.
University of Wisconsin-Stout.
University of Wisconsin-Stout.
University of Wisconsin-Stout.
University of Wisconsin-Stout.
University of Wisconsin-Stout.
University of Wisconsin-Stout.
University of Wisconsin-Stout.
University of Wisconsin-Stout.
University of Wisconsin-Stout.
University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
Indiana University-Bloomington, Indiana.
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.
University of Wisconsin-Barron County.
Olivet College.
Minnesota State University-Mankato.
Not really sure.
Q1b. To which colleges have your choices been narrowed? (Students)
University of Minnesota-Duluth and Saint Cloud State University – Minnesota. There are others,
but they slipped my mind.
University of Minnesota-Duluth.
University of Minnesota-Duluth, University of St. Cloud and University of Minnesota-Morris.
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, University of Wisconsin-Stout and University of
Wisconsin-Oshkosh.
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, University of Wisconsin-Milwaukee and Wisconsin Lutheran
College.
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and University of
Wisconsin-Stevens Point.
University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and University of Wisconsin-Stout.
University of Wisconsin-Platteville and University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.
University of Wisconsin-Madison and University of Minnesota-Twin Cities.
University of Wisconsin-Madison, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and University of
Minnesota.
University of Wisconsin-Madison, Marquette University-Milwaukee and University of North
Dakota-Grand Forks.
University of Wisconsin-Stout, West Point-New York and Air Force Academy, Colorado.
University of Wisconsin-Stout, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and University of Minnesota.
University of Wisconsin-Stout, University of Wisconsin-Platteville and Michigan Technical
College.
University of Wisconsin-Stout and Institute of Production and Recording-Minneapolis, Minnesota.
University of Wisconsin-Stout, University of Wisconsin-Green Bay and Marquette
University-Milwaukee, Wisconsin.
University of Wisconsin-Stout, University of Las Vegas-Nevada and University of New
Orleans-Louisiana.
University of Wisconsin-Stout and University of Minnesota-Duluth.
Winona State University-Winona, Minnesota and University of Wisconsin-Stout.
Q1b. To which colleges have your choices been narrowed? (Students)
University of Minnesota, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and University of Wisconsin-Stout.
North Dakota State University, Concordia University-Minnesota and Minnesota State
University-Moorhead.
Saint Norbert College-De Pere, Wisconsin and University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.
Saint Norbert College-De Pere, Wisconsin and University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Northland College-Ashland, Wisconsin, Saint Olaf College-Northfield, Minnesota and Marian
College-Fond Du Lac, Wisconsin.
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.
St. Mary's University-Winona, Minnesota, College of Saint Benedict-Saint Joseph, Minnesota
and University of Massachusetts-Amherst.
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and Wisconsin Indian Technical College.
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, University of Wisconsin-La Crosse and University of
Wisconsin-River Falls.
Saint Cloud State University-Minnesota, University of Wisconsin and Milwaukee School of
Engineering, Wisconsin.
Saint Cloud State University – Minnesota, Minnesota State University-Mankato and University of
Wisconsin-Madison.
University of Wisconsin and Winona State University-Winona, Minnesota.
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and University of Wisconsin-Green Bay.
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire.
Brooks College-California, California State University and Daytona Beach Community
College-Florida.
Saint Cloud Tech, Saint Cloud State University-Minnesota and Chippewa Valley Technical
College.
Ferris State University-Big Rapids, Michigan, University of Wisconsin-Stout and University of
Wisconsin-River Falls.
University of St. Thomas, Minnesota and University of Wisconsin-Stout
Q1b. To which colleges have your choices been narrowed? (Students)
University of Iowa-Dubuque, University of Wisconsin-Platteville and Loras College-Dubuque,
Iowa.
Michigan State and Grand Valley State University, Michigan.
Northeast Iowa and University of Wisconsin-River Falls.
University of Denver-Colorado and Aveda Institute of Minneapolis-Minnesota.
Minnesota State University-Mankato, University of Wisconsin-Stout and Saint Cloud State
University – Minnesota.
University of Oregon-Portland and New York University.
University of Wisconsin-Manitowoc, University of Wisconsin-Stout and LTC- Menomonie Falls,
Wisconsin.
Q1b. To which colleges have their choices been narrowed? (Parents)
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and University of Wisconsin-Madison.
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and Massachusetts Institute of Technology (MIT).
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities and University of Wisconsin-River Falls.
University of Minnesota-Twin Cities, Concordia-Minnesota and University of Wisconsin-Stout.
University of Wisconsin-River Falls, University of Minnesota and maybe Hamline University-Saint
Paul, Minnesota.
University of Wisconsin-River Falls or Saint Olaf College-Northfield, Minnesota.
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh and possibly Carroll
College-Helena, Montana.
University of Wisconsin-Whitewater, University of Wisconsin-Platteville and University of
Wisconsin-Stout.
University of Wisconsin-Oshkosh, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and University of
Wisconsin-Milwaukee.
University of Wisconsin-Platteville, Northwestern University-Evanston, Illinois.
University of Wisconsin-Madison, University of Wisconsin-Whitewater and University of
Wisconsin-La Crosse.
University of Wisconsin-Madison, University of Wisconsin-Platteville and University of WisconsinLa Crosse.
University of Wisconsin-Madison and University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point.
University of Wisconsin-Madison, University of Wisconsin-Stout and University of MinnesotaTwin Cities.
University of Wisconsin-Madison and University of Wisconsin-Stout.
University of Wisconsin-Green Bay, Winona State University-Winona, Minnesota and University
of Wisconsin-Superior.
University of Wisconsin-Stout, Inver Hills Community College-Inver Hills, Minnesota and
Minnesota State University-Mankato.
University of Wisconsin-Stout, University of Chicago and Savannah, New York Fashion Institute.
Winona State University-Winona, Minnesota, North Dakota State University and Minnesota State
University-Moorhead.
Q1b. To which colleges have their choices been narrowed? (Parents)
Winona State University-Winona, Minnesota, La Croix and University of Wisconsin-Platteville.
Minnesota State University-Moorhead and University of Wisconsin-Madison.
Iowa State, University of Wisconsin-Stout and Colorado State-Fort Collins.
College of St. Catherine-Saint Paul, Minnesota, College of Saint Scholastica -Duluth, Minnesota
and University of Wisconsin-La Crosse.
Saint Norbert College-De Pere, Wisconsin, Beloit College-Beloit, Wisconsin and Northland
College-Ashland, Wisconsin.
Saint Norbert College-De Pere, Wisconsin, Ripon College-Ripon, Wisconsin and University of
Wisconsin-Oshkosh.
University of Texas-Austin.
Community colleges and maybe a four year.
Indiana University, Arizona State and University of Minnesota.
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire and Winona State
University-Winona, Minnesota.
University of Wisconsin-La Crosse, Winona State University-Winona, Minnesota and Viterbo
University, La Crosse, Wisconsin.
Luther College-Decorah, Iowa, Gustavus Adolphus College-Saint Peter, Minnesota and Bethel
College-Arden Hills, Minnesota.
St. Mary's University-Winona, Minnesota, College of Saint Benedict-Saint Joseph, Minnesota
and Winona State University-Winona, Minnesota.
Michigan Technical College, Northern Michigan University-Marquette, Michigan and University of
Minnesota-Duluth.
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, University of Wisconsin-River Falls and University of
Wisconsin-Stout.
University of Wisconsin-Eau Claire, University of Minnesota-Duluth and University of
Wisconsin-Stevens Point.
Saint Cloud State University-Minnesota and Minnesota State University-Mankato.
Saint Cloud State University-Minnesota, Minnesota State University-Mankato and Bemidji State
University-Minnesota.
Q1b. To which colleges have their choices been narrowed? (Parents)
University of Wisconsin in Wisconsin, Minnesota State University-Mankato and University of
Wisconsin-Stout.
Oh all in the state of Wisconsin. Four year colleges, all in our part of the University of Wisconsin
system.
Minnesota Art Institute or Hennepin Technical College-Minnesota.
Anoka-Ramsey Community College-Minnesota.
University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point, University of Wisconsin-Green Bay and Minnesota State
University-Mankato.
Any Division One gymnastics school. She is waiting on a scholarship, so any school that accepts
her in Division One would be the one that she will attend.
I really don't know. He is interested in a few colleges, but I don't know off the top of my head.
I don't know.
I don't know which colleges they are.
I don't know yet.
I don't care to reveal that.
I'd rather not say.
I would rather not give the names. Two in Wisconsin and two in Washington.
Q2. Why did you choose this college or university? (Students)
It's close to home.
They both have programs in the field I am going into. Cito Technology.
Close to home.
Q2. Why did they choose this college or university? (Parents)
She will be the fifth person from our family to go to the U of M.
She is going to school for fashion and they have a fashion program at this college.
Got a partial scholarship to swim and just really like the school.
I am not sure why he chose it.
Program for architecture and design.
They feel this is the best in the field of social work.
Q3. Please describe what the term “polytechnic college or university” means
to you. (Students)
Many technologies. Many variations of technologies.
1
Poly means many, some type of technology.
1
No idea. Technical, maybe. Poly meaning many and technic meaning technical. That's
my guess.
1
Technology, that's all that comes to mind.
1
Many technical colleges rolled into one.
1
No idea, technology.
1
Well poly meaning many, I would have to say many majors. Well, how about if I say also
many technical fields or courses would be offered?
1
Educational. It is for more hard working students, medicine.
10
A single major school. Like a school that deals in only one major or field.
11
I don't really know. A four year college.
17
Variety of students go there.
18
I understand that you only have to go for two and you'll be making as much money as
going to the four year college.
2
I don't know like AMTC. A technical like Madison Tech, they both are.
2
Community College, I don't know.
2
I have no idea. I would guess that it has something to do with very specific careers.
3
More than one type of degree.
4
Something to do with politics. Getting you ready for being in politics.
5
Probably that a school leans towards politics or like the government.
5
Means higher education. Learning in like the science field.
6
Q3. Please describe what the term “polytechnic college or university” means
to you. (Students)
It has something to do with what I want to get into. Technology Education.
7
It's a technical school. It deals with computers and technology.
7
Technical school that focuses on something special.
7
Let me think, does it mean a technical school? I think it means a technical school.
7
It means a technical school or college.
7
They're able to work around technology and to teach students how to use technology
every day.
8
It means having a bright future.
9
To build a career for yourself. I really don't know.
9
A place where you learn the skills that you need to get through life. Just teaches you all
the things you need to know.
9
Just a school that will help me in a career that I would like to pursue. I don't know. I don't
know exactly what career I want, but it would probably help me.
9
No idea.
98
I don't know.
98
I don't even know.
98
No clue.
98
Not sure.
98
No idea.
98
I don't know what that is.
98
I don't know what it is.
98
I don't know.
98
Q3. Please describe what the term “polytechnic college or university” means
to you. (Students)
I have no idea.
98
I don't know.
98
I have no idea.
98
I have no idea.
98
I don't know.
98
I don't know, I don't know much about it.
98
I really don't know.
98
I don't know what the term polytechnic college means.
98
I don't know.
98
I don't know.
98
I don't know.
98
I don't know.
98
I heard of it before, but I don't know what it means.
98
I don't know. Never heard of it.
98
I have no idea.
98
I do not know.
98
No idea.
98
I don't know.
98
I don't know.
98
No idea.
98
Q3. Please describe what the term “polytechnic college or university” means
to you. (Students)
I don't know.
98
I don't know what polytechnic is. I have never heard of the term.
98
I don't know.
98
I don't even know what that is.
98
Don't know, actually.
98
Actually, I've never heard that word. Polytechnic, I'm thinking that poly is one.
98
I have no idea.
98
I don't have any idea.
98
I don't know what it is.
98
I don't know.
98
No.
98
I don't know.
98
I have no clue.
98
I don't know.
98
No idea.
98
I don't know.
98
No.
98
No.
98
I have no idea.
98
I don't know what it is.
98
Q3. Please describe what the term “polytechnic college or university” means
to you. (Students)
Oh I don't know what that means.
98
I have no idea.
98
I don't know what it is.
98
I don't know.
98
I have no clue.
98
I'm not quite sure. I have never heard that term before.
98
I have never really heard of it.
98
I really don't know.
98
Poly means many. I really do not know.
98
I don't know what to say, I have no idea what it is.
98
I don't know.
98
I have no idea at all. I have never heard of them at all.
98
I don't know.
98
I don't know.
98
I don't know what it is.
98
I don't know.
98
No idea.
98
Wow, I really do not know.
98
Never heard of it.
98
I don't know.
98
No clue.
98
I don't know.
98
No idea.
98
Q3. Please describe what the term “polytechnic college or university” means to
you. (Parents)
Focuses more on technology than anything else.
1
I don't know. Study for what you're going for, technical.
1
A lot of technical kinds of things.
1
I would think that it would focus on technology if I were just going by the name. To tell you 1
the truth I really don't know what it means. You got me good on that one. I'm hoping that
you will tell me about it later or it will drive me nuts all night and I'll have to look it up on the
Internet.
Kinds of technical careers.
1
I have no idea. I know what technical is.
1
Polytechnic probably means multiple technical aspects. Basically a technical college
would not be as rounded as another college or university. Would be more directed to a
particular field, a specific career field. University would be a more rounded degree, still
hoping to end up with a bachelor degree.
1
It is a university, but mainly only engineering, surveyor engineering, or civil engineering.
1
I don't know. A school that specializes in technical degrees.
1
It has something to do with technology and a variety of classes. Technology is linked to
several different classes, not necessarily in the realm of business and finance.
1
I don't know what it means. Some type of technical school concentrating on some type of 1
technical field.
I don't know. I am assuming that it would mean a technical college. That the college would 1
teach technology.
I think it means many technical careers in one school.
1
I don't know. That it teaches various technical skills.
1
I don't know, maybe it means it's technical, because the word technical is in it.
1
Let's see, poly means many and technic would be technical. So it would be a four year
college that emphasizes many of the technical sciences. I'm familiar with Cal Poly and
they are a four year school with emphasis on technology.
1
Just from the name it would offer many options in the technical area. Maybe associate
degrees as opposed to a bachelor degree.
1
Q3. Please describe what the term “polytechnic college or university” means to
you. (Parents)
It means it has a broader more technical nature to it and larger range of studies.
1
I don't know, I haven't heard of poly before. Variety of technology offered.
1
Just the college that has a technical education.
1
It would be several technical fields you could study; a variety of fields you could study. I
couldn't tell you, not even sure if they are two or four year schools.
1
Many technical fields.
1
Oh boy, not really sure, something modern and up-to-date. Sounds like arts or
something.
12 13
Something very expensive, I don't know, I never heard of it. It's not in state.
14
I don't know. I am not really for sure but the first thing that comes to mind is California.
The name polytechnic makes me think of technology and that term makes me think of
California.
15
Well, it sounds hard to me because I know a polytechnic school in New York and it
sounds very nerdy, very science-oriented. I would say that they're hard to get into and
they usually have excellent students.
16
Technical College.
2
Vocational, hands-on training. Vocational training for employment.
2
Technical school. I think it's in the inner city.
2
I don't know. A vocational college.
2
I think some kind of technical college.
2
I have no idea. More of a technical school? I don't know. Just more of a specialized
technical school.
2
Trade college where you can go to get a degree.
2
It sounds like a technical school. One that deals with specific types of skills.
2
It means a two year program where it is more specialized to your occupation.
2
Just a technical school where you can get a technical degree.
2
It probably means a college or university that has many fields.
4
Q3. Please describe what the term “polytechnic college or university” means to
you. (Parents)
I don't know, maybe it means many choices.
4
An institute of higher learning that offers a big variety of skills. All different backgrounds,
humanities, technology and sciences.
4
I don't know. Multiple colleges. I really can't say because I don't know.
4
It would be a political science.
5
More like a school that is concentrated on engineering. Small school, not a major
university.
6
Science and engineering college.
6
A school of technology. A school that provides a four year college degree that specializes
in science and engineering or technical appliances.
6
Usually it's a technical college that's more geared towards math or science.
6
It means like that they present multiple disciplines in engineering plans.
6
I really don't know, I've never heard of that, but it's probably science- and
industry-related.
6
The only thing that comes into my mind is math. A college specializing in mathematics.
6
No idea. Maybe engineering or math destinations. Well if you wanted an education in
either of those fields, that's where you would consider going.
6
I would say technical in science.
6
It has something to do with what my husband does and he is a technical education
teacher. Hmm, poly, I don't really know what that is.
7
Wherever he can get the best education.
9
I am not sure what the term polytechnic means.
98
Four year post high school program.
98
Don't know, never heard of it.
98
I have no idea.
98
I have no idea.
98
Q3. Please describe what the term “polytechnic college or university” means to
you. (Parents)
I don't really know what it means.
98
I am not familiar with that term.
98
No.
98
I don't know. I have no idea.
98
I have no idea.
98
I have no idea.
98
Never heard of it.
98
I don't know.
98
I don't know.
98
I don't know.
98
I really don't know what it is.
98
Don't have a clue.
98
I don't know.
98
I don't know.
98
Don't know what is.
98
I am not sure.
98
Never heard of it. I have not heard the term before.
98
I have no idea, what does it mean?
98
I have no idea.
98
I have no idea what it means. My wife might know, but I don't.
98
I honestly have no idea.
98
Not a [expletive deleted] thing. Have no idea of what that is.
98
I don't know what that means.
98
I have no idea.
98
Q3. Please describe what the term “polytechnic college or university” means to
you. (Parents)
I have no idea. I don't have a clue.
98
I don't know.
98
I don't know.
98
I don't know.
98
I have no idea what that means.
98
I don't know what a polytechnic is. I have never heard of the term.
98
No clue.
98
I don't know.
98
I have no idea what it means.
98
Not a clue. Not even a guess.
98
Nothing.
98
I don't know.
98
I have no idea.
98
Nothing.
98
I really don't know.
98
I don't know.
98
I really don't know.
98
No.
98
I don't even know what it means.
98
Q7. Given this definition, how likely would you be to apply to a polytechnic
college or university? (Students)
Very likely
The programs that they might have there.
19
It's like joining something that is going to be your major, like if you want to become a
professional and a leader.
20
It seems as if there is a lot offered and it would be a prospective of you know what you
are going for. It seems as if it would be a good school to go to.
4
By the things that you said that a polytechnic does, I'm pretty interested.
4
I do not know, just like the sound of it. Just sounds interesting.
4
I don't know because it sounds that they want to teach you more than what another
institution would. Maybe that they go more in-depth about how and what they teach you.
4
I don't know, I just like the name. It sounds interesting.
4
I would apply because it offers the kind of engineering options I like.
5
I don't know.
98
Somewhat likely
I don't know because I have my plans set, I don't know if I would change it and I don't
know if I fully understand the differences.
1
It deals with math and science. I am not going into that field. If I were, I would apply.
1
To keep my options open. Just in case I change my major, there are other things I could
do.
11
It sounds pretty much interesting and it sounds like a good deal. It offers a lot and when
you go, you can easily switch to what you really like.
11 4
The variety of the courses for major and minor.
11
It has a wide variety of undergraduate and graduate degrees and since I'm not sure what 11
I want to do I would think that this would work for me. I would be able to switch out if it's
something that I don't like.
It sounds like it has a wide variety of classes. If it's not a good fit for you, you can
change classes fairly easily. It's technically geared. It just said it's a technical school.
11
Q7. Given this definition, how likely would you be to apply to a polytechnic
college or university? (Students)
It sounds like they offer a variety. Variety of classes and courses. It's seems like they are 11 4
really up-to-date on technology. As far as having the newest learning technology with
computers and others things.
I'll look for a college that offers a variety of majors so I can explore my interests. Many
fields and options so I can find information on the majors I'm thinking about.
11
I like the idea of undergraduate and graduate programs. A wide variety of things you can 11
do at the college.
I haven't really narrowed down my colleges. I would be looking for location and majors
that might interest me.
12 19
It sounds interesting. I don't know what I want to do yet, so this might be one of my
options and I would be interested in applying.
17 4
I don't know. I just know that I am going to college and this is of interest to me.
17
It sounds good but I'm not quite sure what I want to be doing for the rest of my life. Well
it's like this, I love science and that aspect intrigues me, but I don't know if science is
what I want to be doing for the rest of my life. I would like to look into going into the
musical field or even education.
17
I just don't know where I'll be going or what I'll be doing.
17
I really don't know what field I am going into.
17
Not sure what I want to do yet so I want to keep my options open.
17
There will be certain areas that I'll be interested in, business and some science fields.
19
I'm kind of interested in finding out more about it because I'm going into child caring for
19
my career. If there are any courses that would be available in the technical area of my
field, then yes it would be most likely that I would apply to a college that has a polytechnic
focus.
I think technology is important for our modern day society.
22
At a lot of jobs you need to deal with technology. Society has a lot of technology in it
now.
22
I want to learn more about it. Yes, I would look into it.
3
I don't know, I really don't know what the school is about.
3
Q7. Given this definition, how likely would you be to apply to a polytechnic
college or university? (Students)
I would like to get in and see how different the teaching and classes are.
3
This is the first time I've ever heard of it.
3
It sounds pretty good.
4
Sounds like a pretty good idea. Jobs are changing and they sound like they are
adapting.
4
It helps you learn more about the technology advances that society comes out with every 4
year and helps you learn to adapt to it.
Just sounds pretty good. It's got a lot of opportunities.
4
It seems very all about sciences. Seems very informative.
4
I'm kind of interested in science. I like chemistry and stuff and the classes. I was kind of
thinking about majoring in nursing. It's one of the majors that I want to go into.
5
Very interested in technical art. I believe it might be a good school for that.
5
Because of the science and technology.
5
I like science and that part of me is really interested in a school that would focus on
science. If you throw technology in there, that is just another plus. To be able to keep up
with modern technology would just be another bonus.
5
I don't know. I'm looking to going into the science field but I'm not sure which area yet, so 5
that sounds like a school I might consider.
I'm interested in computer science. That's a technical field.
5
The field I'm interested in is scientific in nature. I would be using computers a lot.
5
I'm not really liking the science aspect of it but I do like the technology aspect. I like to
keep up-to-date with technology and this seems to be heading that way.
5
I'm into technology but I lean more towards the arts. I'm putting it into art, also. It's a good 5 22
idea to combine science and economy. I think nowadays science is a big part of our
economy.
I'm really into computers and how to write programs. Being that it is a technical school,
that's really cool, I really like it.
5
Q7. Given this definition, how likely would you be to apply to a polytechnic
college or university? (Students)
With this information, it broadens my knowledge that there are schools out there with a
science and technical focus that offer specialty areas of teaching. So yes, you have
sparked my interest in polytechnic schools and I will be looking them up and seeing
where they are being offered.
5
It would have a lot to offer me as a school.
5
I'm not sure. I like science. Being that I like science and they would be a science
technology school, that's pretty good for me.
5
I want to go to college to get a better job. I have to go to college.
6
It might give me a better chance with the career that I decide. Resources that I have, like
financial.
6
It would help you get a job. It would help you concentrate on what you want to be, your
career.
6
If wasn't too expensive, sounds like a good idea. Good way of teaching students and
getting them ready for life.
7 4
Afford to go, scholarships, etc.
7
I don't know why.
98
I don't know.
98
I don't know.
98
I don't know why. I don't know what to say.
98
I don't know.
98
I don't know.
98
Not very likely
Looking for more in the teaching profession. I don't believe a polytechnic college would
have that.
1
I narrowed my choices down to the University of Wisconsin-Stevens Point and University 1 3
of Wisconsin. That's what I narrowed them down to. Just for the science and I don't think
I can get the degree at this college. If a polytechnic college is a technical college and I
don't know if it is, I just don't think they would have enough funding for my major.
Q7. Given this definition, how likely would you be to apply to a polytechnic
college or university? (Students)
I want to go into business and not science. I'm not really interested in science.
1
I already pretty much have the schools I'm considering. I already kind of know what
school I'm going to attend and I just have one other college to look into.
1
I have other plans.
1
They don't have the majors I want, criminal and education. If they had those majors, I
would.
1
I'm going for a different career than science and technology
1
I already know what my career path is and I wouldn't change that. I know exactly what I'm 1
going to do.
I'm not looking in the science areas for college.
1
I just think that technology is not the thing I want to major in. It sounds like their focus is
on technology.
1
I am not really good in math and science and I have already chosen my degree.
1
It doesn't fit what I want to do. I want to be a journalist and it seems like they don't have
what I'm looking for.
1
Not going to go into those industries.
1
I am not a fan of the sciences. I think we all have our own personal experimentation
which is not always taught in a scientific format. Society is always changing and
modifying which is the reason for polytechnic institutes. I don't think the basis of society
will ever change. Robots will never run our society.
1
I pretty much know what I am going to do.
1
I am not into the whole science thing.
1
I am not into the sciences much.
1
Interested in medicine. Would not have what I am looking for.
1
I'm looking more for the business field. If the strong suit is science, I'm looking for the
strong focus on business.
1
I'm not interested in engineering and science.
1
Q7. Given this definition, how likely would you be to apply to a polytechnic
college or university? (Students)
Never heard of a school like that. The polytechnic part. Go to schools near where I live.
12
Not sure. Do not know where I want to go or do.
17
I don't know if they offer housing and I don't want to live at home.
18
I wouldn't go into science or technology, but if they offered other courses that would be in 19
my field I would be interested.
I like travel schools and technical schools. I like to be up-to-date on what's going on.
21
I don't know a whole a lot about it. It is not very traditional like a four year college.
3
I have not heard of it before, so I am not sure of what it is.
3
I do not know. It sounds small and I want to go to a bigger school.
3
I just still don't know.
98
Not at all likely
Not really interested in science or technology.
1
I am not into science and technology.
1
I'm not interested in sciences.
1
I have my colleges ranged out and I know where I'm going to.
1
I'm not at all interested in going to a school that's for science fields or technology.
1
This type of institution doesn't interest me at all because I will be going to school for
business.
1
I am not aware of what that is and what all of that means. I am not sure what polytechnic
means.
3
I don't know.
98
Q7. Given this definition, how likely would you be to encourage your son or
daughter to apply to a polytechnic college or university? (Parents)
Very likely
I don't believe in the traditional college. Your child gets picked over and your child gets a 15
better placement at a technical college. Your child doesn't have to wait on a list to get
picked over from the other kids.
I think it reflects our continually changing culture.
4
He is very interested in computers and technology.
5
There are a couple of programs that she would be interested in that are offered in that
type of school. Nursing is what she would be interested in and I do encourage it.
5
My son is interested in a technical degree.
5
She excels very well in science. She gets A's and she is an honor student when it comes
to things like that.
5
She is very strong in technology, she really relates well to any hands-on technology.
We're not sure if she's going to school for two or four years, so this may be a perfect fit
for her. If she wants to go to a two year and get certified in something, that would be
great. But if she wanted to go further she could, and still be certified in a certain area. I
think technology is an ever growing part of our world so there should be many, many job
opportunities with this type of schooling. There are tons of job opportunities in medical
technology and that school would be a great place to start.
5
My son's focus is on the engineering, mechanics, science-type area.
5
She is very strong in science.
5
I believe children are the future and important to invest in their education.
6
I want them to go so that when they're done, they'll get a good job.
6
It would make her extremely marketable. Employable. She would be interested in it. She
just enjoys cutting edge technology.
6
I have looked into schools and that sounds like something that you would get placed
higher in a job than if you just took a regular four year degree. I'm a nurse and that kind
of college could probably get you a four year education but only in two years, so you
could get the better job. Time. I think you would probably get done sooner and I'm in the
medical field and that seems true to me.
6
Cost effective to cheaper. Assume regular university classes would transfer, science and 7
engineering.
Q7. Given this definition, how likely would you be to encourage your son or
daughter to apply to a polytechnic college or university? (Parents)
Somewhat likely
Just because she already has her mind made up. She's not open to suggestions.
1
I have a child that is interested in education.
1
The variety of choices and opportunities to learn the theory and then do the hands-on
learning.
11
Because of the diversity of classes offered.
11
I really don't like the word institution. It would have been the word institute, it would have
sounded better. I really don't know anything about that particular school so I can't
encourage anyone to go there.
13 3
I think there are many colleges now that fall under that category but they just don't call
themselves polytechnic. I can't think of something offhand.
16
Kids nowadays don't know what they want to do.
17
It depends on what my daughter wants to do for her career choice.
19
I think it would depend upon what my child was thinking of if it would match up to a
polytechnic college.
19
It would depend on what she wanted to go to school for. A lot of schools offer a lot of
different types of classes, so it would depend on what she wants to do.
19
Depends on what they want to do, if they want any kind of technical career, would be
very happy to support that kind of education.
19
It depends upon what field he has chosen to take. A polytechnic is a shorter term and I
feel my son needs a longer term in college to become more mature before entering the
work force. College doesn't just teach skills it also teaches more social skills.
19 6
She kind of knows what she wants to go to school for and it would depend on where the
schools are.
19 12
I am not sure if that's where her interests are, if it's the science area. I don't think she
has really honed in on the area she wants to study yet.
19
Somewhat likely depending on their career choice because not everyone is driven to be
in college.
19
If it is in fact something offering a major my daughter is looking at, and if it's
comprehensible to a standard university, I would encourage her to look into it.
19
Q7. Given this definition, how likely would you be to encourage your son or
daughter to apply to a polytechnic college or university? (Parents)
If my daughter were into computers, then I would.
2
Well until I know more, it just depends. A college is a personal choice, there are so many
out there and it depends on what your interests are. There are so many thoughts that
have to go into it, there are a million reasons why you pick a college. If that type of
education is what they are after then that is what you would do.
2
I don't know if I would encourage her one way or the other. It would have to depend on
other factors. Is it a fit for her? Does it offer a variety of degrees? Location? Do they
have an activity/athletic program? It would have to be a school that offers baseball.
2 3
She would have to research it. She would have to look at what they offer before she
would apply.
2
He is going there and not me and it is his choice.
2
It is a specific area geared college and I like that. Well, if I were choosing for her I would
choose a college that specializes in the area of schooling that we're geared for.
2
Again, this is all based on not really knowing what the term is, but I guess it is more broad 3
based.
Still trying to figure out what it is. I would not rule it out, because I am not sure what
polytechnic is.
3
I don't know what's offered. Don't know what programs are offered. Don't know how much 3 7
money it is.
I have no idea what they are.
3
I don't much about them.
3
It sounds like a good approach of combining theory with practice. Hands-on experience.
4
The adaptability of the institution. Although I wouldn't suggest it if they don't have the
sense to not ask someone ten more questions when they tell you they don't know what a
polytechnic school is.
4
Those are attributes that I would be interested in for college.
4
If you are going to adapt it to the surroundings and to the culture the person is in, it would 4
be more applicable.
Q7. Given this definition, how likely would you be to encourage your son or
daughter to apply to a polytechnic college or university? (Parents)
They are geared towards technology and that is in all aspects what all of society will be
leaning towards in the future. If you're not up-to-date with technology, you will be left
behind.
4
I think It would be a good school if that's what they have to offer.
4
If it does everything that you said, it would be a good education, I would think. Just
whatever you just said about providing the education and the needs of society.
4
It sounds good. It sounds like a place where they would get them out there and employed 4 6
right away.
It sounds like a pretty good idea. Well, I never went to college and I make $90,000 per
year. I really don't know the different areas of college teaching.
4
Just listening to you just said it seems like a good idea. I might look into it.
4
Oh I like the idea of them adapting to changes. I like the high tech idea and that you
could go on and get a graduate degree at the same school if you wanted to.
4
He is very interested in science. I think that would be a good fit.
5
That is her field, that she is going into, is science.
5
He is interested in science. We just started looking so we don't have enough background
information on colleges.
5
I would say she is technically advanced. More advanced.
5
Basically, I would be somewhat likely to get him into any grad school after graduation. I
just want my children to get more education than twelve years in grade school and high
school.
6
From the way it sounds, I would think it would be one of the major career choices in the
future.
6
Well if they can get a good-paying job and it's something that's needed. There's no point
in going to school for something that there's no job market for. If you're going to go to
school, go for something that you can get a job at, like in technology.
6
She may have an opportunity to have a better job after she completes four-year college
plan.
6
To help her meet her goal. In planning for her education and career.
6
Q7. Given this definition, how likely would you be to encourage your son or
daughter to apply to a polytechnic college or university? (Parents)
The cost and location. Tuition. If it's a state university or belongs to a state, if it had
reciprocity, for example Minnesota and Wisconsin have reciprocity but that's all. So for
my dollar, it's great to send my son to Minnesota because I pay Wisconsin tuition, I don't
want to pay out-of-state tuition, not when University of Wisconsin at Madison, where I
graduated, has a great science program.
7 12
A big part of the equation would be cost.
7
It is just something different that she should consider. I think that she should explore all
options. It would be a different option than most juniors in high school other than just the
traditional colleges or universities.
8
I would want them to look at not just one but many colleges.
8
Just to look at all the options.
8
I'd want her to look at all her options before she decided.
8
I don't know.
98
I don't know.
98
Not very likely
My daughter has her mind made up already, but it sounds like it would be a great school
to attend.
1 4
They don't offer...well, because he is not going to be an engineer.
1
It's a science and engineering college. If you're going for nursing, that's not the college
you would want to attend.
1
She wants to be a teacher.
1
I know what my child is going into and it is not a good fit for my child. My child is not
going into a science or technology field.
1
My daughter has decided on a career of occupational therapy which is not so heavy on
science. Well actually, it is heavy on science, but it doesn't require the same level of
science and math that a polytechnic institution would offer. If she were interested in
something like engineering, I would encourage her to go to a polytechnic institute.
1
My son's not interested in science.
1
She has already made her choices and if that's what she wanted I'd be all for it.
1
Q7. Given this definition, how likely would you be to encourage your son or
daughter to apply to a polytechnic college or university? (Parents)
[Student], my daughter, is going to be a biology major or a major working with animals.
This isn't a fit for [Student].
1
My daughter is not into math and sciences, she is into the fine arts.
1
She is not going into a tech field so that doesn't apply to her. She will be going into
teaching field.
1
She is not interested in technology.
1
Well, if she can't play hockey there, then she doesn't want to go.
10
Our son is autistic, but high functioning. I was hoping that it was a college that helps with 14
the learning disabled.
It would depend upon whether they had the correct courses that my daughter wants to
take.
19
My child would have to choose to go to the school.
2
Well, he does what he wants.
2
It is my daughter's decision where she will be going to college. It would not change my
mind if she would have made her mind up already.
2
Being that I didn't know what it was and I'm still not comfortable with the little information
that you gave me. I just don't have enough information to encourage my child to attend a
polytechnic institution.
3
We have been trying to go with some of the top schools in engineering. We haven't seen
much information about polytechnic schools.
3
I don't know anything about it.
3
I honestly have no idea.
98
Not at all likely
That is not what she is into.
1
It probably doesn't offer interior designing. She wants to major in interior designs if it
were to be an option in the school and located in Minnesota, I would look into it.
1
He would be interested in going into animation or some kind of arts so that kind of school 1
probably wouldn't work for him. It just wouldn't be the desire of his heart. I have a
younger child who would probably choose a school like that since she wants to go into
genetics.
Q7. Given this definition, how likely would you be to encourage your son or
daughter to apply to a polytechnic college or university? (Parents)
She has already chosen the school that she wants to attend. Her major would be art. She 1
wants to be a dancer and she has already made her decision.
I don't think it will focus on what she needs to do. I think there is more opportunity
somewhere else and would cover everything she needs.
1
I think they are trying to use the name to snowball people. Well, just say what you mean, 13
polytechnic could mean anything. It's just such a stupid name, polytechnic.
I am not sure what a polytechnic college is.
3
I have no clue what that is.
3
It is hard to answer these questions because we are not in this now.
98
Appendix B:
Student and Parent
Questionnaires
Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions Questionnaire - Students
Hello, may I speak with ___________?
My name is ___________ and I am calling from Anderson, Niebuhr and Associates, an
independent market research firm. We are interested in talking to students about their opinions
and perceptions of colleges and universities. Thank you again for your participation!
College Choice
1. Please tell me which statement most accurately describes your college planning at this time?
(READ a. THROUGH e.)
a. _____ I know which college I am going to attend. →
Which one?___________________
b. _____ I have narrowed my choice down to a few colleges. →
What are those colleges? ________________________
________________________
________________________
c. _____ I am just starting to think seriously about choosing a college.
d. _____ I am not thinking about college yet.
e. _____ I probably will not attend a 4-year college.
IF ANSWERED a TO QUESTION 1 → Ask:
2. Why did you choose this college or university? (DO NOT READ LIST; MARK FIRST
RESPONSE AND OTHERS MENTIONED – DIFFERENTIATE BETWEEN FIRST
RESPONSE AND OTHERS)
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
g.
h.
i.
_____ The array of academic programs offered at the institution
_____ A specific program offered at the institution
_____ Geographic location
_____ Name of the institution
_____ Reputation of the institution
_____ Recommendation of family/friends
_____ Past experience
_____ Affordable cost/financial aid offered or scholarship received
_____ Other (specify________________________)
Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
NOTE: IF RESPONDENT ASKS FOR A DEFINITION, TELL THEM THAT A DEFINITION WILL
BE PROVIDED LATER IN THE SURVEY BUT AT THIS POINT, WE ONLY WANT TO KNOW
THEIR PERCEPTIONS – WHATEVER THAT MAY BE.
3. I’m interested in your perceptions of polytechnic colleges or universities. Please describe
what the term “polytechnic college or university” means to you. (PROBE for additional
comments).
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
4. I’m going to read some statements about polytechnic institutions. Please tell me if you
believe these statements accurately describe a polytechnic institution or are unsure. The first
is:
a. The academic programs offered at a polytechnic institution
include both undergraduate degrees and graduate
degrees.
b. A polytechnic institution is a two-year school.
c. A polytechnic institution is a technical school.
d. A polytechnic institution offers all types of degrees.
Yes
No
Unsure
Y
N
U
Y
N
U
Y
N
U
Y
N
U
5. Now, I will read you some additional statements about polytechnic colleges or universities.
Please tell me if you strongly agree, agree, disagree, strongly disagree, or are unsure. The
first is: (READ a. THROUGH e.; READ ‘Unsure’ AS A RESPONSE OPTION)
a. Going to a polytechnic institution
will increase the likelihood of finding
a high-paying job after graduation.
b. In general, the quality of education
offered at a traditional institution is
better than at a polytechnic
institution.
c. The academic programs offered at
a polytechnic institution focus
primarily on science and
engineering.
d. A polytechnic institution provides
state-of-the-art technology to their
students.
e. Polytechnic institutions are leaders
in integrating technology into
teaching and learning.
Strongly
Agree
Disagree
Strongly
Disagree
Agree
Unsure
SA
A
D
SD
U
SA
A
D
SD
U
SA
A
D
SD
U
SA
A
D
SD
U
SA
A
D
SD
U
6. There is a University in the Midwest thinking about becoming a Polytechnic Institution. The
current mission statement for this school is:
“Our institution has a variety of programs leading to professional careers focused on the needs of
society, which are adapted and modified as the needs of society change. We offer an approach
to learning that combines theory, practice and experimentation.”
Do you believe that this mission statement would apply to a polytechnic institution?
a.
b.
____ Yes
____ No
Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions- when definition is provided
7. A polytechnic institution offers a broad array of both undergraduate and graduate programs.
Polytechnics have strength in the areas of science and technology, and embrace an
educational philosophy that blends theory and practice. Polytechnics support a strong
technology infrastructure and are among the leaders in integrating technology into teaching
and learning.
Given this definition, how likely would you be to apply to a polytechnic college or university?
Would you be: (READ a. THROUGH d.; FOLLOW-UP WHY FOR ALL RESPONSES)
a.
____ Very likely →
b.
____ Somewhat likely →
c.
____ Not very likely →
d.
____ Not at all likely →
7a-d. Why is that?__________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_______________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
8. Today, if you were to choose a college or university to attend, would you choose a: (READ a.
THROUGH c.)
a.
b.
c.
____ College or university with a polytechnic focus?
____ A college or university without a polytechnic focus?, or
____ Does not make a difference?
9. The mission statement I read to you earlier was for the University of Wisconsin-Stout. UWStout is considering adding the polytechnic designation to their institution. Based only on the
name, which University would you be more likely to apply to: (READ a. THROUGH d.)
a. ____ The University of Wisconsin-Stout?
b. ____ The University of Wisconsin-Stout, Wisconsin’s premiere polytechnic Institution?
c. ____ The University of Wisconsin-Stout Polytechnic?
d. ____ The University of Wisconsin-Stout Institute of Technology?
e. ____ None
f.
____ Don’t know
Demographics
10. What do you expect to be your college major? (DON’T READ LIST)
a. _____ Art
b. _____ Business, management
c. _____ Communications; speech, media, etc.
d. _____ Computer science
e. _____ Human development, counseling, vocational rehabilitation
f.
_____ Liberal arts; performing arts, English, humanities, history, philosophy
g. _____ Nursing
h. _____ Physical sciences or engineering; biology, math, physics, chemistry, engineering
i.
_____ Social sciences; psychology, anthropology, economics, political science,
sociology
j.
_____ Teacher education
k. _____ Technical trades
l.
_____ Undecided
m. _____ Other, specify __________________________________
THANK YOU FOR YOUR PARTICIPATION!
Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions Questionnaire- Parents
Hello, may I speak with the parent or guardian of ___________?
My name is ___________ and I am calling from Anderson, Niebuhr and Associates, an
independent market research firm. We are interested in talking to parents about their opinions
and perceptions of colleges and universities. Thank you again for your participation!
College Choice
1. Please tell me which statement most accurately describes your son or daughter’s college
planning at this time? (READ a. THROUGH e.)
a. _____ They know which college they are going to attend. Which one?_________________
b. _____ They have narrowed their choice down to a few colleges. What are those colleges?______________________________
_______________________________
_______________________________
c. _____ They are just starting to think seriously about choosing a college.
d. _____ They are not thinking about college yet.
e. _____ They probably will not attend a 4-year college.
IF ANSWERED a TO QUESTION 1 Ask:
2. Why did they choose this college or university? (DO NOT READ LIST; MARK FIRST
RESPONSE AND OTHERS MENTIONED-DIFFERENTIATE BETWEEN FIRST RESPONSE
AND OTHERS).
a. _____ The array of academic programs offered at the institution
b. _____ A specific program offered at the institution
c. _____ Geographic location
d. _____ Name of the institution
e. _____ Reputation of the institution
f. _____ Recommendation of family/friends
g. _____ Past experience
h. _____ Affordable cost/financial aid offered or scholarship received
i. _____ Other (specify_______________________)
Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions
NOTE: IF RESPONDENT ASKS FOR A DEFINITION, TELL THEM THAT A DEFINITION WILL
BE PROVIDED LATER IN THE SURVEY BUT AT THIS POINT, WE ONLY WANT TO KNOW
THEIR PERCEPTIONS – WHATEVER THAT MAY BE.
3. I’m interested in your perceptions of polytechnic colleges or universities. Please describe
what the term “polytechnic college or university” means to you. (PROBE for additional
comments).
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_____________________________________________________________________________
_________________________________________________________________
4. I’m going to read some statements about polytechnic institutions. Please tell me if you
believe these statements accurately describe a polytechnic institution or if you are unsure.
The first is: (READ Yes, No, AND Unsure)
2. The academic programs offered at a polytechnic institution
include both undergraduate degrees and graduate degrees.
3. A polytechnic institution is a two-year school.
4. A polytechnic institution is a technical school.
5. A polytechnic institution offers all types of degrees.
Yes
No
Unsure
Y
N
U
Y
N
U
Y
Y
N
N
U
U
5. Now, I will read you some additional statements about polytechnic colleges or universities.
Please tell me if you strongly agree, agree, disagree, strongly disagree, or are unsure. The
first is: (READ a. THROUGH e.; READ ‘Unsure’ AS A RESPONSE OPTION)
a.
b.
c.
Going to a polytechnic institution will
increase the likelihood of finding a
high-paying job after graduation.
In general, the quality of education
offered at a traditional institution is
better than at a polytechnic institution.
The academic programs offered at a
polytechnic institution focus primarily
on science and engineering.
A polytechnic institution provides
state-of-the-art technology to their
students.
e. Polytechnic institutions are leaders in
integrating technology into teaching
and learning.
Strongly
Agree
Agree
Disagree
Strongly
Disagree
Unsure
SA
A
D
SD
U
SA
A
D
SD
U
SA
A
D
SD
U
SA
A
D
SD
U
SA
A
D
SD
U
d.
6. There is a University in the Midwest thinking about becoming a Polytechnic Institution. The
current mission statement for this school is:
“Our institution has a variety of programs leading to professional careers focused on the needs of
society, which are adapted and modified as the needs of society change. We offer an approach
to learning that combines theory, practice and experimentation.”
Do you believe that this mission statement would apply to a polytechnic institution?
a.
b.
____ Yes
____ No
Perceptions of Polytechnic Institutions- when definition is provided
5. A polytechnic institution offers a broad array of both undergraduate and graduate programs.
Polytechnics have strength in the areas of science and technology, and embrace an
educational philosophy that blends theory and practice. Polytechnics support a strong
technology infrastructure and are among the leaders in integrating technology into teaching
and learning.
Given this definition, how likely would you be to encourage your son or daughter to apply to a
polytechnic college or university? (READ a. THROUGH d.; FOLLOW-UP WHY FOR ALL
RESPONSES)
a. ____ Very likely
b. ____ Somewhat likely
c. ____ Not very likely
d. ____ Not at all likely
7a-d. Why is that?__________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
__________________________________________________________________________
6. Today, if you were to choose a college or university for your child to attend, would you
choose a: (READ a. THROUGH c.)
a.
b.
c.
____ College or university with a polytechnic focus?
____ A college or university without a polytechnic focus?, or
____ Does not make a difference?
6. The mission statement I read to you earlier was for the University of Wisconsin-Stout. UWStout is considering adding the polytechnic designation to their institution. Based only on the
name, which university would you be most likely to encourage your child to apply to: (READ
a. THROUGH d.)
a.
b.
c.
d.
e.
f.
____ The University of Wisconsin-Stout?
____ The University of Wisconsin-Stout, Wisconsin’s premiere polytechnic Institution?
____ The University of Wisconsin-Stout Polytechnic?
____ The University of Wisconsin-Stout Institute of Technology?
____ None
____ Don’t know
THANK YOU FOR YOUR PARTICIPATION!