High School Longitudinal Study (HSLS) Scales

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Instrument Overview

Expert Notes AvailableView expert commentary on strengths and cautions for this instrument
Strengths

Captures a wide range of science experiences and attitudes over time.

Useful for understanding how science identity, interest, and achievement interact.

Cautions

Based on self-reports, so results may be affected by social desirability bias—students answering in ways they think are favorable rather than fully accurate.

The HSLS scales are used to measure students’ science attitudes, experiences, and aspirations over time. They include items on science interest, self-confidence, identity as a “science person,” and participation in science courses or activities. The goal is to track how students’ science skills and engagement develop from high school into postsecondary education.

There are 22 school-level variables, 37 items for the student questionnaire, a mathematic achievement score, and 29 parent items. 

Content

Grades
9th Grade
Languages
English,
Spanish
Respondent
Student,
Parent

Administration Information

Length
89 items