Linking Engineering Career and Technical Education Coursework With College Readiness and STEM Persistence

• In Event: Career and Technical Education SIG Paper Session: Trends and Findings Related to Secondary-Level Career and Technical Education Coursework

Abstract

Students with learning disabilities (SWLDs) are underrepresented in STEM fields in college and career. One potential means to engage this population in STEM studies and encourage a successful transition to college is through engineering and technology career and technical education (E-CTE) coursework in high school. In this study, we explored how E-CTE courses may benefit SWLDs in particular. Using nationally representative data—the High School Longitudinal Study (HSLS)—we found E-CTE participation was associated with higher probability of advanced math coursetaking, applying to college, and enrolling in a STEM major as well as higher math SAT scores. There were observable differences for SWLDs with respect to college preparatory curriculum (negative) and declaration of a STEM major (positive). Implications are discussed.

Authors

• Jay Plasman, The Ohio State University
  Presenting Author

• Michael A. Gottfried, University of Pennsylvania
  Non-Presenting Author

• Filiz Oskay
  Non-Presenting Author