The Effects of High School Course Taking and SAT Scores On College Major Selection

Authors : Alparslan ŞAHİN, Niyazi ERDOĞAN, Jim MORGAN, Mary CAPRARO, Robert CAPRARO

Pages : 96-109

Doi:10.19126/suje.40091

View : 44 | Download : 14

Publication Date : 2013-01-04

Article Type : Research Paper

Abstract :A survey study design was employed to examine the relationship between enrollment in computer and Advanced Placement courses during high school, SAT scores and subsequent selection of a STEM major in post-secondary education. Study data were collected through an online survey from a multi-school charter school system in which a variety of computer courses are offered to 9-12 grade students. The study showed that students` scores on the SAT reading section and, total composite score insert ignore into journalissuearticles values(reading + mathematics); had a statistically significant relationship with students` selection of a science, engineering, technology, and mathematics [STEM] major. Although there was not a statistically significant relationship between students` SAT mathematics scores, there was a pattern showing that students with higher SAT mathematics scores were more likely to choose a STEM major. We also found that there was a statistically significant relationship between the number of AP science courses and total number of AP courses taken by students and their selection of a STEM major. The final analysis revealed that there was no statistically significant difference between those who chose STEM majors and the number of computer courses taken.
Keywords : STEM interest, AP courses, SAT, Major selection

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