Applying Human Opportunity Index to NAEP HSTS: Understanding Access to Advanced Coursework for All Students

• In Event: Deeper Insights Through NAEP Innovation

Abstract

This study applies the Human Opportunity Index (HOI) to analyze the 2009 and 2019 NAEP High School Transcript Studies (HSTS) and examine the distribution of access to advanced mathematics and science coursework among U.S. high school graduates. Using logistic regression and dissimilarity index techniques, we calculate HOI values that reflect both the coverage and fairness of opportunity across student subgroups defined by gender, race/ethnicity, school enrollment size, and U.S. Census regions. Findings reveal an increase in overall access to advanced courses over time, but persistent disparities in student subgroups. The HOI offers a policy-relevant measure for evaluating opportunity-to-learn beyond participation rates, providing insights for expanding access to rigorous coursework for all students, regardless of background or school context.

Authors

• Judy H. Tang, Westat

• Laura Coward Egan, Westat