The purpose of this study is to assess Advanced Placement participation and academic success of students at Texas A&M University in terms of selected characteristics and performance scores and the relationships and differences of these attributes to academic success. The first phase (API) of the research project was completed in 2003. Additional information on the results of the research can be found in the Executive Summary. The research has been continued into 2004 (APII) to extend the development of benchmark data regarding AP students.

PREPARED FOR: Texas Center for AP/IB Initiatives, funded by Texas Education Agency

Many issues are associated with high school science teacher quality, teacher shortages, and student learning.  These include quicker certification routes, changing demographics, and increases in numbers of out-of-field teachers.  Knowledge of strategies that result in successful science teacher recruitment, retention, and life-long learning is useful to high schools confronting these issues. PRISE uses a systems approach to link educational research with policy development.  Our goal is to create an articulated and coherent model of continuous professional development that improves the quality of science teaching and makes significant contributions to reducing the current shortage of qualified high school science teachers.

GRANT SUPPORT: National Science Foundation

In 2003, the 78th Texas Legislature enacted HB 411 to improve science education at all levels and prpare Texas Students for postsecondary sucess. The rsulting group of programs, known as teh Texas Science Initiative, strives to address these challenges. The Texas Science Initiative has contracted with CMSE to produce a White Paper concerning the state of science education in Texas. The document will inform future policy decisions and resource investments of science education stake holders and policy makers. For more information, please visit: http://www.science.tamu.edu/cmse/tsi.

Grant Support: Texas Education Agency