High school dropouts in Belize: A grid and group explanation

Abstract

Scope and Method of Study: The purpose of this qualitative study was to use grid and group theory to investigate and explain the factors that led to selected students' to dropout of two southern high schools in Belize. The study used purposive sampling to select six dropouts and six educators from each of the two schools that were a part of the study. The study used interviews, observations, and school documents to collect data about the dropouts and about the schools .This data was analyzed, coded, and reviewed and emerging themes were identified. The grid and group theoretical framework was the medium for creating the study's design and for collecting and analyzing data.

Findings and Conclusions: After analyzing interviews, field notes, and documents, the researcher determined that the following factors were responsible for students dropping out of high school: poor student relationships with teachers and other persons in positions of authority at high schools, Lack of personal discipline or student aptitude or desire to comply with school rules, peer pressure, lack of family support and financial difficulties. Additionally, six common themes related to school environment that either inhibit or promote dropout were also identified: how students were taught, how discipline was applied or reinforced, the way the curriculum was presented, and the levels of interaction and socialization students were allowed in the classroom, a lack of consistent, effective, organizational structures, the absence of a strong school structures that enforced or monitored teacher accountability and limited accountability to school leaders and students.