Abstract
Purpose. The primary purpose of this study was to discover common transfer and articulation practices and to determine what practices aid in the implementation of the STAR Act between California Community Colleges and the California State University. The review of literature revealed a lack of research on the application of practices in transfer and articulation, especially pertinent due to the recent passage of the STAR Act. Methodology. This study was a quantitative, descriptive, cross-sectional survey to determine successful transfer and articulation practices currently in use, transfer and articulation practices being used as a result of the STAR Act, and the communication practices that are used to achieve successful transfer and articulation. A survey containing 40 questions and statements was administered to 127 Articulation Officers at the California Community Colleges and the California State University. Findings and Conclusion. The most important current transfer practice was "Courses are offered that are transferrable." The most important articulation practice was "There is communication with AOs at sending and receiving institutions." The most important transfer practice to aid in implementing the STAR Act was "Courses are offered that are transferable." The most important articulation practice to aid in implementing the STAR Act was "Institution has a firm commitment to transfer and articulation." The top three methods of communication for receiving information on transfer and articulation, as selected by the AOs, were "Email," "Listserv," and "Meetings/Presentations." Implications for practices that most affect students, practices that addressed faculty, practices expected of the institution, and practices dependent upon leadership are included. As a whole, the important practices in current use and those which will aid in the implementation of the STAR Act were the same with a slight difference in the order of the ranking. This indicates that those practices which have worked in the past are likely to continue working in the future with the implementation of the STAR Act. Recommendations. Recommendations for transfer and articulation practice with respect to the implementation of the STAR Act are made based on the study's findings. Keywords: transfer, articulation, California, higher education, SB 1440.