Title
Effects of research and mentoring on underrepresented youths' STEM persistence into college
Author(s)
Beauchamp, Alexandra L.; Roberts, Su-Jen; Aloisio, Jason M.; Wasserman, Deborah; Heimlich, Joe E.; Lewis, J. D.; Munshi-South, Jason; Clark, J. Alan; Tingley, Karen
Published
Preprint
Publisher
Research Gate
Abstract
Background: Authentic research experiences and mentoring during experiential learning have positive impacts on fostering STEM engagement among youth from backgrounds underrepresented in STEM. Programs applying an experiential learning approach often incorporate one or both of these elements. Having such opportunities provides youth with multisensory experiences that create personal meaning, establish a sense of belonging and build confidence. Purpose: Using a longitudinal design, this study explored the impact of hands-on field research experience and mentoring as unique factors impacting STEM-related outcomes among underrepresented youth. We focus on the high school to college transition, a period that can present new barriers to STEM persistence. Methodology/Approach: We surveyed 189 youth before and up to three years after participation in a seven-week intensive summer intervention. Findings/Conclusions: Authentic research experiences was related to increased youths’ science interest and pursuit of STEM majors, even after their transition to college. Mentorship had a more indirect impact on STEM academic intentions; where positive mentorship experiences was related to youths’ reports of social connection. Implications: Experiential learning programs designed for continuing STEM engagement of underrepresented youth would benefit from incorporating authentic research experiences, with the potential for even longer-lasting effects when coupled with mentorship.
Keywords
mentoring; research experience; STEM; underrepresented; experiential learning
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PUB27078