The initial work and education experiences of early school leavers: a comparative study of Australia and the United States

Authors

Stephen Lamb, ACER
Russell Rumberger, ACER

Publication Date

12-1-1999

Comments

Longitudinal surveys of Australian youth research report ; n.14

Abstract

This study examines the experiences of early school leavers from the United States and Australia in the first two years beyond secondary school. The results of the study indicate that similar percentages of students left school early in the United States and Australia - 21 percent in the United States and 22 percent in Australia. In both countries the study indicated that school leaving rates were substantially higher for students from lower socioeconomic backgrounds, for students attending public and government school, and for students with low achievement levels. The study reported considerable differences between the two countries in when early leavers left school and whether they eventually finished school. Other factors included in this study included the completion rates of school and obtaining employment.

Recommended Citation

Lamb, S., & Rumberger, R. (1999). The initial work and education experiences of early school leavers: a comparative study of Australia and the United States. https://research.acer.edu.au/lsay_research/74