Synthesis of Research on Advanced High School Coursework in Science and Mathematics

Harvard University, Cambridge MA

Investigators

Abstract

This synthesis project will use epidemiological, longitudinal, and economic methods to study the effectiveness of the Advanced Placement (AP) Program. In doing so, the project will pull together information on the components that make advanced high school coursework most effective for different groups of students. The AP program has experienced tremendous growth over the past two decades and government support for the program is increasing, so a focus on AP with regard to the kind of rigorous instruction that broadens participation in these courses addresses an important policy issue.