Exploring the Influence of Academic Tracking on Adolescents' Social Network and Social Activity

• In Event: 26.081 - Poster Session 3
  In Poster Session: 26.081-7 - Special Education Research SIG: Exploring Race, Disability Status, and Social/Emotional Outcomes

Abstract

Limited research has examined how personal characteristics and institutional policies influence adolescent social networks and engagement in informal and formal social activity. To examine these issues, we developed and tested a social capital model to examine how personal characteristics and institutional policies, such as school-based academic tracking based on disability status, influence adolescents’ social networks and social activity. Ego network data were gathered on adolescents with and without disabilities in two high schools across academic tracks (i.e., general education, co-taught, special education). Results indicated significant differences in ego network structural characteristics, ICT use, and participation in informal social activity for students in the special education track. Implications for research and practice (e.g., egocentric network measures, academic track policies) are provided.

Authors

• Kim W. Fisher, Arizona State University

• Karrie A. Shogren, The University of Kansas