2022 EDSIG Proceedings: Abstract Presentation

A University’s Computing Excellence Scholarship: Chronicling the Journey’s First Year

Mark Terwilliger
University of North Alabama

Xihui Zhang
University of North Alabama

Daniel Ray
University of North Alabama

Achini Herath
University of North Alabama

In 2021, the University of North Alabama (UNA) chose to make a significant scholarship commitment to its computing degree programs by earmarking $2.5 million per year for the next 10 years. The goal is to attract stronger prospective students, support them financially through their chosen computing programs, and ultimately increase the graduation rate of students in these high-tech fields. The scholarships are designed to specifically draw students who show the potential to excel in computer and related technical studies. The successful applicant would be a cut above their peers and convincingly exhibit a passion for pursuing a career in a computing field.
In a unique twist, the design, administration, and execution of the entire scholarship program was left entirely in the hands of the faculty in the Department of Computer Science and Information Systems, one of four academic departments in UNA's College of Business and Technology. The department offers bachelor's degrees in Computer Science, Computer Information Systems, and Information Technology, as well as five computing-related minors. Department personnel have built data-driven procedures for assessing applicants, and, in the process, challenged common assumptions on how to do so.
In this work, we tell the story of designing and implementing this novel scholarship program intended to identify top-tier prospects in the computing fields, and discuss the lessons we learned in the process. Additionally, we discuss our assessment of the effectiveness of the program.
Our assessment is based on two fundamental hypotheses. Our first hypothesis is that it is possible to develop a relatively simple point system to identify those candidates who are likely to be academically successful. The second hypothesis is that a positive relationship can be shown between the provision of extra resources to students and the academic success of those students. Such continuing positive impacts should eventually lead to a higher graduation rate, thus satisfying the overall goal of the scholarship program.
Saturday at 8:45 am