Leveraging Social Capital During Middle-to-High-School Transitions to Increase Access to Advanced Math

• In Event: Sunday Roundtable Session 7:45 am
  In Roundtable Session: Overcoming Barriers in Mathematics Education (Table 7)

Abstract

Advanced math classes in high school can be a pathway for social mobility; however, students from low-SES backgrounds and underrepresented students, including students who are Black, Hispanic, and emerging bilinguals, are less likely to take advanced math classes. This study of advanced math course taking in eighth grade and in high school uses the HSLS:09 dataset and analyzes both existing inequities and then secondly, the relationship between SES, advanced high school math, and various school elements, including placement policies, along with practices that leverage social capital through information sharing and developing connections. Findings suggest ways to increase access to advanced math for students from low-SES backgrounds.

Author

• Kim Megyesi-Brem, Claremont Graduate University