Determinants of Higher Education Aspirations and Expectations Among High Schoolers in Ghana

Abstract

Using data from 4,081 students collected from across 150 high schools, the paper presents an analysis of high school students' aspirations and expectations for higher education. Two logistic regression models were used to examine the determinants of students’ higher education aspirations and expectations. The results suggest that age, gender, parental education, and students' perceptions of Mathematics are important factors influencing high school students' higher education aspirations. Older students have a decreased desire to pursue higher education. Fathers' education, particularly having tertiary education, positively affects students' aspirations. Students' perception of Mathematics has a positive effect on aspirations for higher education. Students with a positive attitude towards Mathematics are more likely to aspire to higher education. Since Mathematics is generally perceived as a difficult subject, a differentiated approach to teaching the subject is recommended to ensure that it is delivered in a manner that does not scare and frustrate students’ aspirations. More broadly, what makes the results of this study crucial is that an understanding of the factors that influence students' aspirations and expectations regarding higher education can serve as valuable insights for policymakers, educators, and stakeholders to support students in realizing their full potential and contributing to national progress. Additionally, knowledge of senior high students' aspirations for higher education is essential for identifying barriers to access, guiding career counseling, and supporting college readiness efforts.

Keywords: students' aspirations, expectations, high school students, higher education, perceptions of mathematics, perceptions of science, teachers’ attitude to teaching, differentiated pedagogy, Ghana

DOI: 10.7176/JEP/15-6-02

Publication date: May 30th 2024