International baccalaureate diploma programs (IBDP) in Oklahoma - A mixed methods study

Abstract

Scope and Method of Study: As Oklahoma grows in technical markets, the need for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) educated individuals will continue to increase. Our focus in aviation should be at focusing to attract students into STEM related fields, however, a stronger focus needs to be in retaining the top tier category of students and push them toward aviation and STEM. Top tier students are those students who are completing advanced academic programs such as Advanced Placement (AP) or International Baccalaureate (IB) Program. The focus of this study was to look at these advanced programs, especially the IB program in Oklahoma, and bring awareness of the program and assess the benefits of having this program in Oklahoma and the academic credit offered to students for completing the program. This explanatory design utilized a mixed method online survey with IB students coupled with qualitative in-person interviews with university and high school stakeholders. This data was then analyzed to understand the IB program, the benefits of IB program, the recruitment needs for both high schools and universities, and recognition for completing this rigorous program.

Findings and Conclusions: Results of this study indicated that Oklahoma is no doubt losing some of their best students to other states and institutions. Research shows where students attend college is most likely where they will enter the workforce. By losing students to other states, Oklahoma is losing valuable professionals in an already inadequate workforce. Oklahoma currently has two IB schools. The state should at least retain these students with better incentives offered not only by improved recruitment and credit policies of Oklahoma universities but by all the stakeholders including industry incentives. As Oklahoma grows technically, more schools like Classen SAS and Booker T Washington are going to be needed. Evidence shows the IB program is producing well rounded, analytical students who have good study skills, learning abilities, and understand how to apply what they have learned. These students are just one example of potentially efficient resources which already exist and need to be tapped to meet state needs. Better recognition and retention of those students is imperative to Oklahoma's health.