Investigation of the effect of BİLSEM attendance level on LGS exam success and the factors determining BİLSEM attendance status

This study aims to examine the factors affecting the attendance of Science and Art Center (SAC) students in Düzce province and the impact of this attendance on their success in the High School Entrance Examination (HSEE) . The research was conducted using a mixed-methods design, incorporating both quantitative and qualitative data. Quantitative data were obtained from SAC archival records and analyzed based on LGS scores, attendance rates, and demographic information. Qualitative data were collected through semi-structured interview forms and analyzed using the thematic analysis method. The results of the study revealed a significant negative correlation between students' attendance rates and their HSEE scores. Additionally, it was found that attendance rates predicted HSEE success at a rate of 11.8%. The attendance percentages of students scoring 450 and above on the HSEE differed significantly from those scoring below 450. Findings from the interviews indicated that the reasons for absenteeism stemmed from familial, personal, and academic factors. This study highlights the importance of interventions targeting the factors influencing attendance levels to improve the academic performance of SAC students. It provides unique findings that can guide the development of educational policies and the creation of more effective strategies for gifted students. Keywords: Gifted Students, SAC Educational Programs, Academic Achievement, School Attendance, High School Entrance Examinations