Commitment to school or commitment to work: Asian American teenagers in comparative perspective

Abstract

Past studies on the academic performance of Asian American students primarily attribute their academic success to the Asian cultural values that emphasize education. Using data from the base year study of the Educational Longitudinal Study of 2002 and its first follow-up study in 2004, this study compares the academic performance of Asian American high school seniors with that of their peers and relates it to their part-time employment and behavior that demonstrate their commitment to academic performance. Study results show a non-linear relationship between work intensity and academic performance which is measured by the standardized math test scores. Aspirations to attend college at 10^th grade accounts for the most in the math test scores of 12^th grade. Other significant determinants are school attendance, preparedness for class, compliance to school rules, enrollment in college preparatory program, and after-school hour activities. Factors such as family income, father's education, and parental help with homework are also important.