Examining Equitable Access in Schools: The Relationship Between Student Capital and Opportunity to Learn

• In Event: 25.067 - Roundtable Session 7
  In Roundtable Session: 25.067-1 - Student Capital and Experiences in School Improvement Processes

Abstract

The purpose of this study is to test the relationship between student background variables – financial capital, human capital, social capital, and cultural capital – and student opportunity to learn (OTL) in math class. Using PISA 2012 data, this study expands the student background variables typically used to study school processes and outcomes to reflect how social structures and school practices shape students’ access to equitable OTL. Results indicate that these student capital variables, particularly social capital, do explain variance in student OTL and reinforce the need for further inquiry and a better understanding of the types of capital possessed by diverse communities. As the outcome of interest, OTL is a potential lever for identifying and addressing inequities within schools.

Authors

• Alison Wilson, The University of Oklahoma

• Angela Urick, The University of Oklahoma