What Separates Girls and Boys? A Multivariate Analysis of the Conditional Effects of Race/Ethnicity and Gender on Postsecondary Access, Persistence, and Attainment

• In Event: Understanding Student Persistence Factors

Abstract

Numerous studies, have documented persistent gaps between the educational attainment of White, Black and Hispanic males. Further, there is evidence of growing gender gaps within these racial/ethnic groups, as females participate and persist in education at higher rates than their male counterparts (Aud et al., 2011; Kuh, Kinzie, Buckley, Bridges, & Hayek, 2006; Radford, Berkner, Wheeless, & Shepherd, 2010; Snyder & Dillow, 2011). This study uses multivariate logistic regression models (separately by gender and race/ethnicity) to determine the extent to which background variables, achievement measures, math coursetaking, engagement indicators, parental aspirations, and risk factors – such as part-time employment – affect the likelihood of on-time graduation and postsecondary enrollment, persistence and attainment for males and females.

Author

• Terris Raiford Ross, National Center for Education Statistics