Experimental Evidence on the Effects of Advanced Placement Courses on Students' Science Interest and Ability

• In Event: 32.048 - College and Career Readiness: Evidence on Standards, Vocational Education, and Advanced Placement

Abstract

This paper reports results from the first experimental study of the Advanced Placement (AP) program. We randomized nearly 1,900 students in 22 schools into AP Biology and Chemistry courses; evaluated the quality of course delivery; and collected data on a range of student outcomes. We estimate the effect of AP course access and participation on students’ confidence in their ability to conduct scientific inquiry; real ability to conduct scientific inquiry (measured with an instrument developed and validated by the research team); and interest in pursuing a Science, Technology, Engineering, or Math major should they enroll in college.

Authors

• Dylan P. Conger, The George Washington University

• Mark C. Long, University of Washington

• Raymond McGhee, SRI International

• Alec Kennedy, University of Washington