Access Is Not Enough: Alignment of College Ambition and Test Performance

• In Event: Poster Session 5
  In Poster Session: Division H Section 3: Assessment in the Schools Poster Session 2

Abstract

This study examines the relationship between students’ college readiness and the realization of college plans. An increasing percentage of students expect to attend college, but many lack strategies to make the transition successfully. Using data from a quasi-experimental intervention in four high schools, this study highlights implications of policies that seek to increase access to college for all students. Of the surveyed high school seniors who expect to attend a four-year college, over half of these students may not possess the strategies to realize this goal. Despite policies that aim to increase access, these findings and the negative consequences of selling unprepared and under-informed students the dream of college, serve as a caution for implementation of college readiness reforms.

Authors

• Justina L. Judy, Michigan State University

• Reed Ebmeyer, Michigan State University