The Experiences of Students Who Do Not Graduate with their Cohort
Abstract
The purpose of this descriptive collective case study was to understand the stories of
students who did not graduate with their cohort. The participants represented two
comprehensive high schools in a large suburban school district. Data collection included an
analysis of school records, observations of the participants in their classrooms, and semi
structured interviews. Data were analyzed through enumerative and thematic coding using
within-case and cross-case analysis. The participants struggled in the traditional
comprehensive high school setting and had experiences in their lives that impacted their
academic success. Several participants experienced limited success in the comprehensive
high school and needed significant support. The students were successful in flexible learning
environments in which they had caring relationships with adults. High school educators must
work to create flexible learning supports that are personalized based on the needs of each
student.
Table of Contents
Introduction -- Literature review -- Findings -- Conclusion and recommendations -- Appendix A. Principal participation recruitment -- Appendix B. Student recruitment letter -- Appendix C. Definition of terms -- Appendix D. Student interview protocol -- Appendix E. Student observation guide -- Appendix F. Student identifier key -- Appendix G. Student participation consent form
Degree
Ed.D. (Doctor of Education)