An evaluation of a modified coordinated Vocational-Academic Education Program for potential dropouts in the Austin Public Schools

Abstract

The purpose of this study was to determine the degree of success of a pilot program in the Austin Independent School District, The program, entitled "General Mechanical Technology,'' was limited to ninth and tenth grade students at one high school in Austin, Texas. Data were collected concerning student attitudes about school by using an attitude scale constructed for this purpose. In addition, data were gathered by use of school records pertaining to attendance, academic grades, and referrals to the office for disciplinary reasons. The data were compared among these groups: the students in the program, a remedial reading group, and an "average" English class. A comparison was made for the year before the students were enrolled in General Mechanical Technology versus the year in which they were involved in the program. A periodic evaluation was conducted by administering a monthly questionnaire to determine student reaction to various parts of the program. An interview was conducted with personnel involved in the program to determine their evaluation. ...