School Counselors' Experiences of Gatekeeping With Underrepresented Students in International Baccalaureate Diploma Programs

• In Event: School Counseling and Counselor Education Research

Abstract

This study explored U.S. high school counselors’ experiences of gatekeeping in their work with underrepresented high school students enrolled in International Baccalaureate Diploma Programs (IB DPs). A transcendental phenomenological research design was employed with a social constructivist theoretical framework for this study. Data were collected through semi-structured individual interviews, focus groups, and document reviews of school-based documents regarding student criteria for consideration for DPs. Data analyses revealed three themes that provided a greater understanding of gatekeeping within the context of IB DPs in school counselors’ work with underrepresented students and families and related stakeholders. Additional novel findings that expand the understanding of gatekeeping are discussed, along with implications for school counseling practice and training, limitations, and recommendations for future research.

Author

• Nancy Chae, Montclair State University