The International Observatory on Academic Achievement - Documentary search

File number :
POEE-DSC-04e

Bibliographic reference :
Bedard, K., & Do, C. (2005). Are Middle Schools More Effective? The Impact of School Structure on Student Outcomes. Journal of Human Resources, 40(3), 660-682.

Abstract :

Middle schools appeared in the United States during the 1940s. These schools are an intermediate stage between elementary and high schools. Generally speaking, students in the sixth, seventh and eighth grades attend them. These grades correspond to the last elementary grade and the two first high school grades in the Quebec school system. In 2001, it was estimated that 58% of sixth graders attended this type of school. This study examined the effect of moving to middle school on the likelihood of on-time high school completion six years and ten months after sixth grade.

Characteristics of Middle Schools
The popularity of middle schools is based on the idea that this type of school structure, better adapted to students of the age group in question, consequently increases the chances of academic achievement, especially for lower achieving students. However, there is no consensus among experts as to whether this type of functioning is a guarantee of success for all, because it may facilitate the achievement of the best students above all.

This structure can have positive or negative effects, with the latter mainly related to the following channels: (1) access to more specialized courses earlier during students’ school years (more experts available in specific subjects); (2) less student monitoring, given the larger body of students under the responsibility of each teacher; (3) exposure to older students conducive to students adopting more mature behaviour or developing insecurity; (4) cleavage between students through the creation of ability-based groups; (5) possibly more grade retention for sixth graders who are enrolled in middle schools.

Assessment of the Effect of Middle Schools
Data on high school completion rates per school district (1992 to 2001) and the structure of schools (1987 to 1994) were used in this study. All this data stemmed from the National Center for Education Statistics (NCSE).

This study is the first attempt at assessing the effect of middle schools. Results of the study revealed the fact that moving to middle school decreased the likelihood of on-time high school completion by 1 to 3%. Therefore, this type of educational institution appears to be detrimental to lower achieving students, contrary to the initial purpose that middle schools were meant to benefit these students above all. More research is required to determine the reasons likely to explain this result.

Links :
This journal is also available in electronic format.

Key Words :
Middle School, Graduation, Quantitative Analysis, Secondary/High School, Newsletter5

Monitored Countries :
United States