How Tracking Relates to Students' Self-Beliefs at the End of Schooling: Evidence From Germany

• In Event: Leadership

Abstract

In this study, we analyze how secondary school tracking relates to students’ self-beliefs regarding their competencies and perceived future chances, when students are at the end of schooling. Using questionnaire, achievement, and administrative school data from 2,155 students from 29 low-track schools, 23 intermediate-track schools, and 35 comprehensive schools in Berlin, Germany, we find educational certificates to be the most important factor shaping students’ self-beliefs. In contrast, students’ track level did not serve as a predictor for the outcomes considered. The achievement of students’ schoolmates was only relevant for students’ self-beliefs regarding their competencies, not for their perceived future chances.

Authors

• Hanna Dumont, German Institute for International Educational Research

• Paula Protsch

• Malte Jansen, Institute for Educational Quality Improvement (IQB)

• Michael Becker, German Institute for International Educational Research