How do you assess the quality and relevance of CTE pathways and dual enrollment courses?

2 What are dual enrollment courses?

Dual enrollment courses are college-level courses that high school students can take for both high school and college credit. Dual enrollment courses can be offered on the high school campus, on the college campus, or online, depending on the partnership between the school district and the postsecondary institution. Dual enrollment courses can cover a variety of subjects, such as math, science, English, or history, as well as career-specific topics, such as engineering, nursing, or culinary arts. Dual enrollment courses can help students save time and money on their college education, as well as expose them to the expectations and rigor of college-level work.

3 How do they differ?

CTE pathways and dual enrollment courses share some similarities, yet they also have their own unique characteristics. CTE pathways are typically focused on a single career cluster, while dual enrollment courses offer a broader range of academic disciplines. CTE pathways are more structured and sequential, while dual enrollment courses allow for greater flexibility and customization. Transferability-wise, CTE pathways may not be accepted by all colleges or programs, whereas dual enrollment courses are more likely to be accepted for general education or elective credits. Furthermore, CTE pathways are generally more widely available and accessible to all students, whereas dual enrollment courses may have eligibility requirements like GPA, test scores, or prerequisites.

4 How do you choose?

When deciding between CTE pathways and dual enrollment courses, consider your personal and professional goals, interests, and preferences. Ask yourself what your career aspirations and plans are. Think about how you learn best and what your college goals and expectations are. If you have a clear idea of what you want to do after high school, a CTE pathway that aligns with your field of interest may be beneficial. If you are still exploring your options, a dual enrollment course that exposes you to different subjects and majors may be preferable. If you enjoy hands-on, project-based, and collaborative learning, a CTE pathway may be more suitable. However, if you prefer more theoretical, analytical, and independent learning, a dual enrollment course may be the better choice. Additionally, if you plan to attend a specific college or program, check the transferability and applicability of your CTE pathway or dual enrollment course. Lastly, consider the cost and time savings of earning college credits while in high school if you are unsure about your college plans.

5 How do you evaluate?

No matter if you decide to pursue a CTE pathway or a dual enrollment course, you must ensure the program you enroll in is of high quality and relevance. When evaluating a program, look for alignment with industry or discipline standards and your personal and professional goals. Additionally, the program should be rigorous enough to challenge you academically, technically, and professionally, as well as prepare you for the next level of education or employment. The program should also provide support such as guidance, resources, feedback, mentors, peers, and employers who can help your learning and career development.