The I-PASS program is a research-based model that builds upon the Regional Sector Strategies framework for supporting key regional industries, the Adult Middle College fast-track educational model, and the Integrated Basic Education and Skills Training (I-BEST) basic skills contextualized learning model.

Regional Sector Strategies (RSS) Framework

The RSS framework is an employer-driven partnership to identify key regional industry sectors and create partnerships to assess and address those industries’ needs.  At the regional level, the RSS framework involves four key steps: (1) identifying clusters of opportunity; (2) analyzing the needs of each cluster; (3) developing and modifying programs and curricula to meet industry needs; and (4) implementing new programs and curricula.  A visual model of the RSS framework appears below:

Adult Middle College

The Adult Middle College model provides an accelerated pathway for adults without high school diplomas or otherwise in need of Adult Basic Education (ABE), English as a Second Language (ESL), or Developmental Education (DE) to pursue simultaneously ABE/ESL/DE education and a workforce certificate or associate’s degree. Virginia and West Virginia community colleges have had very successful results with Adult Middle College pilot programs.

Integrated Basic Education and Skills Training

I-BEST typically involves pairing ABE/ESL instructors and professional-technical instructors to provide students concurrently with literacy education and workforce skills with the ultimate goal being to help students reach key academic momentum points. In the most extensive review of I-BEST to date, Jenkins, Zeidenberg and Kienzl (2009) found that I-BEST students in Washington State’s community colleges were far more likely to continue into credit-bearing coursework and earn credits toward a college credential than were non-participants.