Can Applied STEM Coursework Reduce the Risk of High School Dropout?

• In Event: 70.066 - Roundtable Session 28
  In Roundtable Session: 70.066-14 - High School Dropout: Issues and Policies

Abstract

Even though the annual high school status dropout rate has substantially decreased over the past 30 years, there are still roughly three million status dropouts. Given these issues, many researchers and policy makers have been investing in developing solutions to continue reducing dropout rates. One potential, yet under-researched, influence is the role of applied STEM coursework. ). Because applied STEM emphasize the application of academic math and science concepts directly to practical job experiences, these skills may in turn make school more relevant, hence potentially reducing the risk of dropout. Using ELS:2002, we find that taking applied STEM courses does link to lower odds of high school dropout. The results are differentiated by race and socioeconomic status.

Authors

• Jay Plasman

• Michael A. Gottfried, University of California - Santa Barbara