Newswise — The number and level of math and science classes taken by high school graduates increased dramatically from 1982 to 2004, according to a new study by researchers at RTI International.
The study, funded by the National Center for Education Statistics, looked at the number and level of math and science courses taken by high school graduates in 1982, 1992 and 2004.
"Our results indicate an increasing number of American high school graduates are completing more advanced-level math and science coursework than in the past," said Ben Dalton, Ph.D., the RTI lead author of the study report.
Researchers found that the percentage of graduates who took the most advanced levels in the math curriculum, pre-calculus and calculus, tripled between 1982 and 2004. Graduates also came much closer to taking math courses during all four years of high school, moving from an average of 2.7 classes in 1982 to 3.6 in 2004.
The trend was also found among science classes. The percentage of high school graduates who completed advanced science classes, including chemistry, physics or advanced biology, almost doubled between 1982 and 2004. Students also enrolled in more science classes during their four years of high school, increasing from an average of 2.2 classes during high school in 1982 to an average of 3.3 classes in 2004.
According to the study, all racial and ethnic groups increased their participation in higher levels of math and science classes between 1982 and 2004. However, White and Asian students were more likely than Black, Hispanic and Native Americans to enroll in pre-calculus and calculus classes, and Asians were more likely than all other racial/ethnic groups to complete the most advanced level of science courses.
Additionally, researchers found that Catholic and other private school students remain more likely than public school students to complete advanced-level courses in math and science, despite increased completion of advanced-level math and science courses by graduates from all school sectors.
"Although some disparities still exist, the overarching trend for all students is toward completing more demanding math and sciences courses," Dalton said.
About RTI International RTI International is one of the world's leading research institutes, dedicated to improving the human condition by turning knowledge into practice. With projects in more than 40 countries and a staff of more than 2,600, RTI offers innovative research and technical solutions to governments and businesses worldwide in the areas of health and pharmaceuticals, education and training, surveys and statistics, advanced technology, democratic governance, economic and social development, energy, and the environment. For more information, visit http://www.rti.org.
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