The Experiences of Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate Diploma Program Participants A Systematic Review of Qualitative Research

Enriched high school curricula like the Advanced Placement and International Baccalaureate Diploma programs are endorsed as “pathway programs” for postsecondary-bound students. Program participation is perceived to have benefits that appeal to a broad stakeholder group of universities, administrators, teachers, students, and parents. In this systematic review, we aim to establish what is known about program experiences by synthesizing pertinent qualitative research on student participation. We identified 20 relevant articles that were published up to July 2013 in English and were listed in commonly accessible databases. Analytical themes explored include the impact of peer relationships, the impact of the teacher–student relationship, the conceptualization of success, the construction of self-image, and perceived preparation for the future. Based on our findings, we offer critical insights into the existing qualitative research and provide recommendations for future research.