Acceleration Programs in Minnesota: Characteristics and College Pathways of Students Who Participate

• In Event: 16.061 - Roundtable Session 4
  In Roundtable Session: 16.061-14 - Promising Practices That Address Diverse Learning Styles

Abstract

Acceleration programs are challenging courses that award high school students high school and college credit simultaneously (dual credit). This study examined participation in acceleration programs and college outcomes for Minnesota 2011 high school graduates. Almost half of the graduates participated in at least one acceleration program. The majority of participants awarded dual credit attended selective and very selective four-year colleges. Students who were economically disadvantaged, of racial/ethnic minority backgrounds, and lower achieving participated in these programs and were awarded dual credit but at lower rates than their peers. Participation was associated with college enrollment, and regardless of the number of credits awarded by colleges, participation also was associated with college readiness and persistence. These findings have implications for multiple audiences.

Author

• Elisabeth Davis, American Institutes for Research