A comparison of Hispanic and non-Hispanic students enrolled in programs of agricultural education in secondary schools in the South Coast Region of California

Abstract

The purpose of the study was to identify characteristics that distinguished Hispanic students in programs of agricultural education in secondary schools in the South Coast Region of California from other students in those programs. The study was conducted during the last month of the 1987-88 school year. The population was surveyed through the use of a data collection instrument. Descriptive statistics were used for reporting the personal and situational characteristics of students. Frequencies and percentages were calculated and used to develop a profile of the students. Correlational techniques were used to determine relationships among situational and personal characteristics, the students' goals for educational attainment, their reason(s) for enrolling in agricultural education in secondary schools, their career aspirations, their attitudes toward seeking eventual placement in an agricultural occupation, and the degree to which significant others influenced them. Comparative techniques were used to compare responses of Hispanic students with those of non-Hispanic students. Mean and standard deviations for the scales and t values were reported. The major findings of the study were as follows: (1) Hispanics enrolled were urban dwellers primarily. (2) Rural students were positive in their perceptions of their level of participation. (3) Rural students' aspirations toward careers in agriculture were greater than those of urban students. (4) The proportion of Hispanics decreased considerably after the first year of enrollment. (5) As length of enrollment increased, the more positive were students' aspirations toward careers in agriculture. (6) Selected circumstances had more of an effect on Hispanics' enrollment than on non-Hispanics' enrollment. (7) Hispanics perceived opportunities in agriculture limited to a lesser extent than did non-Hispanics. (8) Non-Hispanics were more positive in their views of the agricultural industry, in general. (9) Hispanics do not aspire toward careers in agriculture. (10) The educational attainment goals of Hispanics were greater than those of non-Hispanics. (11) Students' perceptions of the influence of immediate family on educational decisions were positive. (12) The perceived influence of the immediate family on educational decisions was greater for non-Hispanics than for Hispanics.