Abstract
Purpose. The purpose of this quantitative study was to determine the effectiveness of participation in dual enrollment programs in influencing Latino male students to enroll in community college upon graduating from high school. This study further investigated the effectiveness of dual enrollment courses to support Latino male students in overcoming costs, early schooling experiences, and self-efficacy to enroll in institutions of higher education after graduating high school within Los Angeles County.
Methodology. This study utilized a quantitative survey research design. This type of descriptive research attempts to examine the effectiveness of dual enrollment participation for Latino males leading to enrollment in community college upon high school graduation. Data analysis featured the use of linear regression when examining factors of education, motivation, and socialization.
Findings. The findings showed that the participation in dual enrollment courses increases the likelihood that students feel prepared for community college coursework. The online survey responses showed high aspirations of degree attainment.
Conclusions. This study revealed the importance of creating opportunities for access to dual enrollment. The data revealed high levels of self-efficacy and motivation by participants, which positively influences the trajectory of their educational experiences.
Recommendations. Future studies focusing on the quality of instruction provided in dual enrollment could provide more insight into the transformational experiences at different levels of education. Interviewing students in a mixed methods research could provide more insight on how students perceive their educational experiences first hand.