Core Issues

Overview

The NRCCTE at the University of Louisville is committed to providing evidence-based solutions to the most vexing problems confronting CTE today, including how to better engage students in the school experience; how to improve academic as well as technical achievement; and how to improve the transition of college and career ready young people from high school to continuing education beyond high school.

Programs of Study

Programs of study (also called career pathways) are a central component of Perkins IV. POS connect secondary and postsecondary institutions, include rigorous academic content aligned with standards, lead to industry-recognized credentials, and provide options for dual credit or concurrent enrollment. Learn more about our research and activities related to POS/career pathways.

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Curriculum Integration

Students, teachers, and administrators recognize the value of curriculum integration, but rigorous evidence of its effectiveness has been scant. The NRCCTE’s three scientifically based research studies of curriculum integration have sought to determine whether it increases student achievement. Learn more about these studies and our related professional development models.

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Dual Enrollment

Dual or concurrent enrollment programs allow high school students to take college-level courses either at their high school or on a college campus. Dual enrollment can help keep students engaged in school, save them money on college tuition and fees, and shorten their time to degree. Learn more about the NRCCTE’s research related to dual enrollment.

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Retention & Completion

Understanding the educational transitions that students must navigate into and through postsecondary systems is critical to improving opportunities for all students. The NRCCTE sponsors research on programs leading to improved retention and completion of postsecondary programs. Learn more.

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Accountability & Assessment

The NRCCTE seeks to provide scientifically based information on current, developing, and future CTE accountability and evaluation systems, with the ultimate goal of developing interrelated strategies that can help states, community colleges, and school districts add value to their individual CTE accountability and evaluation systems. Learn more about these activities.

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Career Guidance & Counseling

Developing a career is a process, not just a destination, and many students are confronted with substantial career and life decisions at an early age with limited opportunities for career exploration. Learn more about how our research explores issues related to career guidance and counseling.

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Industry-Recognized Credentials

High school and postsecondary CTE programs that lead to associate degrees, certificates, and industry-recognized credentials can help young people find skilled employment and give students the option of later returning to school for a higher degree. Learn more about our work related to industry-recognized credentials.

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