Learning Outside of School Walls: Rural-Nonrural Differences in Out-of-School Academic Instruction

• In Event: Marriott Roundtable Session 18
  In Roundtable Session: Innovations in Teaching and Learning in Rural Schools and Communities

Abstract

Existing literature focuses on documenting rural-nonrural differences in opportunities to learn within a school; little attention is given to rural-nonrural differences in opportunities to learn after the bell rings. This study fills a gap in the literature by examining rural-nonrural differences in out-of-school academic instruction, using data from the High School Longitudinal Study of 2009. Results showed significant differences in the likelihood of participating in out-of-school academic instruction between rural and metro students, even after controlling for other variables including family socioeconomic status. Findings suggest that rural students may have fewer opportunities to learn not only within a school but also outside of school walls.

Authors

• Soo-yong Byun, The Pennsylvania State University - University Park

• Charlotte A. Agger, Indiana University

• Sangkyoo Kang, The Pennsylvania State University

• Ji-hye Kim, The Pennsylvania State University