Examining Male Underachievement in Public Education: Action Research at a District Level

Abstract

Educational statistics and worldwide media have reported a gender gap in academic achievement, with boys falling behind girls with regard to grades, high school graduation, and college enrollment and retention. This mixed methods study involved interviews with educators and the examination of quantitative data to investigate this issue in a school district. Local results mirrored national statistics regarding gender differences in achievement and school success factors. Themes are explored and recommendations are made to enhance school success skills for male students. © 2008, SAGE Publications. All rights reserved.