Dual Credit in Illinois: Identifying Opportunities to Expand Access Across Racial/Ethnic Groups

• In Event: Saturday Roundtable Session 1:15 pm
  In Roundtable Session: College and Career Readiness (Table 1)

Abstract

In Illinois and nationwide, growth in Dual Credit (DC) coursework has historically been accompanied by persistent racial/ethnic gaps in participation. However, the size of participation gaps varies substantially across districts. This study will examine how district factors were related to trends in racial/ethnic group DC participation from 2018 – 2022 in Illinois. Using longitudinal multilevel models, it will identify characteristics of districts that have been successful at achieving equitable participation. Initial findings show that the rate of DC participation has increased overall and especially among Black/AA students, who participated at higher rates than the general student population in 2021 and 2022. Black/AA participation was negatively related to AP coursework and per pupil instructional expenditure, and it was highest in rural areas.

Author

• Sarah E. Cashdollar, University of Illinois System