A recent report by Gallup and the Lumina Foundation reveals that Americans maintain more confidence in community colleges than four-year institutions, primarily due to the cost-effectiveness and perceived value of two-year public colleges. Nearly half (48%) of Americans express significant confidence in community colleges, while only one-third (33%) feel the same about four-year colleges and universities. The report is based on a survey of 2,180 U.S. adults conducted last month.
The report highlights political and racial differences in confidence levels. Republicans show much lower confidence in both community colleges and four-year institutions compared to Democrats and independents, but they still view two-year colleges more favorably. Among Republicans, 36% express confidence in community colleges, versus 15% for four-year schools. Independents hold more confidence in both, while a majority of Democrats (67%) trust community colleges compared to 58% for four-year institutions. Racially, both Whites and people of color rate community colleges similarly, but people of color have a higher confidence in four-year schools (39% vs. 30%). Overall, Americans rate community colleges higher across several aspects, including affordability and quality, with 58% praising their affordability compared to only 11% for four-year colleges.
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