Action Research Project

1) Setting the Foundation
This was done with my principal over the phone. We discussed three potential topics for the research and settled on the topic indicated. With the changes being made by the state to the high school graduation plan it is becoming more difficult for students to have time in the schedule to take elective courses. The expectation from the state, that high schools be training students with skills for the 21st century, the lack of opportunity for students to take CTE courses whose main focus is the development of those skills may have an impact on graduation rates.
2) Analyzing Data
Data will be gathered from the campus data specialist to determine the number of students who participated in a sequence of CTE courses over their high school year for the graduating classes of 2009 & 2010. Those classes graduation rates will be reviewed to determine if participation in CTE courses were an indicating factor for graduation success.
3) Developing a Deeper Understanding
A review of data and literature from the Center for Career & Technology Education (a national organization), Texas State Board of Education Career & Technology Education department will be conducted. Interviewing local school district Career & Technology Education Directors will give an overview of the changes experienced in the area over the last few years.
4) Engage in Self Reflection
I have been teaching in the area of CTE for 10 years at the high school level. Prior to that I taught for 10 years at the community college level. Before entering the classroom I was the Training and Staff Development Manager for a major corporation. My background allows me a unique view of what has been and is currently being taught in classrooms today and what skills need to be developed for students to find success in career fields such as business and marketing. Questions for reflection might include:
How is CTE curriculum aligned with “real” skills used in the work place?
How does CTE curriculum support traditional academic skills?
What skills are “new” in the work place that need to be incorporated into the classroom?
5) Exploring Programmatic Patterns
In today’s world of tight budgets and teacher layoffs, schools are struggling with maintaining the status quo and continuing or improving their current accountability ratings. With changes on the horizon, such as end of course exams, schools may not have the resources or desire to take on changes in CTE courses. Potential recommendations in this research may require schools to increase spending in the area of technology and training for teachers and counselors.
6) Determining Direction
The research question is taking a look at students who have previously participated in a sequence of CTE courses and how that may or may not have impacted graduation rates. The second direction is, assuming the research does show an impact, how to educate and encourage counselors, parents and students into the courses.
7) Taking Action for School Improvement
The major goal for any high school is to graduate students who are prepared to meet the challenges of the future; whether that be college or the work place. The goal of this research is to create change which can have a bottom line impact on graduation rates.
8) Sustain Improvement
As the state continues to implement changes in the requirements for graduation, it will become imperative that schools find ways to meet those demands and maintain the established standards. As additional requirements for demonstrated skill development are added, CTE courses can become an integral part to help schools meet those standards.
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