The Effect of the High School on Students' Aspirations

Four independent studies have found that the aspirations of students are influenced by the kind of high school they attent (predominately middle class or prodominately workin class). Examination of these studies reveals several inconsistencies which, it is suggested, can be accounted for by distinguishing between high schools in large metropolitan areas and those in smaller communities. Two major explanatory mechanism, are also identified: (1) variation in educational standards, an consequent differences in students' scholastid development, and (2) peer-group influence on students'attitudes and values. Research with a sample of Canadian girls supports this interpretation of previous findings, although the first mechanism is more clearly demonstrated than the second.