Educational planning and academic achievement of middle school students: A racial and cultural comparison

Abstract

A nationally representative sample of middle school students from diverse cultural and ethnic backgrounds was surveyed on educational aspirations, planning, and achievements. Results indicated significant racial and gender differences in educational and vocational planning help-seeking behaviors. Results also indicated a significant race and sex interaction in students' educational aspirations as well as perception of parental expectations. Students' educational aspirations were significantly related to their current academic achievements. In many cases, students' aspirations and perceived parents' expectations did not match closely. Significant dtfferences in mathematics, science, and reading proficiency among racial and sex groups also were indicated. Implications for counseling are discussed.