When you are not alone: school composition by family structure and students’ academic achievements in South Korea

Abstract

ABSTRACT This study examines inequality based on family structure within the school environment, focusing on South Korea’s standardized education system. Previous research has pointed to potential challenges associated with a high concentration of students from single-parent families in schools. However, in the context of a standardized education system that aims to minimize variation across schools, these dynamics may manifest in different patterns. Using a nationwide administrative data set, the National Assessment of Educational Achievement, this study finds a significant interaction effect between the proportion of students from single-parent families within schools and the academic achievement, which is particularly pronounced for students from single-parent families. The results suggest that institutional contexts may play a significant role in reducing educational disparities associated with family structure, thereby providing schools pathways to mitigate the academic challenges prevalent among students from diverse family backgrounds.