Predictors of Career Academy Enrollment in a Local School District

• In Event: Impact of Career and Technical Education on Student Experiences and Postsecondary Outcomes

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine whether participation in career academies in general, and in specific types of career academies, is a function of demographic and/or prior learning experience and prior performance variables. The study’s conceptual framework is grounded in Krumboltz’s social learning theory of career decision making. Data analyses were conducted utilizing binary and multinomial logistic regression methods. Findings indicated an increased proportion of female students, as well as students of color, were enrolled and taking advantage of the career academy pathway. Students recognized as having taken CTE coursework as part of their middle school experience were also found to be more likely to enroll in a career academy as part of their high school experience.

Authors

• Daniel Cox, University of South Florida

• Victor M Hernandez-Gantes, University of South Florida

• Edward Charles Fletcher, University of South Florida