Engagement and Educational Attainment: Factors That Support Successful African American STEM Students at a Minority-Serving Institution

• In Event: Roundtable Session 19
  In Roundtable Session: Engagement and Educational Attainment: African American STEM Students

Abstract

This qualitative study explores the relationship between engagement practices and high achieving African American students majoring in science and engineering at a Historically Black College and University (HBCU). Research studies strongly indicate that engagement in educational practices benefit students to varying degrees (Kuh, Kinzie, Buckley, & Hayek, 2006). However, few have examined this phenomenon among African American students majoring in science and engineering at a HBCU.

Engagement is related to a host of positive outcomes including persistence, academics, and outcomes. In detailing these practices, the study offers both significant indications and innovations about the factors that contribute to the high achievement for African American students. Recommendations for institutional improvements in policies and practices are also discussed.

Author

• Andrea L. Tyler, Tennessee State University