Community Dynamics at Work: A Qualitative Study of the Effects of Interpersonal Relationships on STEM Persistence Among African American College Students

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

Abstract

Research studies indicate African Americans face multiple, reinforcing obstacles by choosing to pursue STEM-related majors and professions. Though participation in STEM fields has increased, African Americans remain underrepresented in STEM academic programs and occupations. In the specific STEM field of computing sciences, isolation, inadequate advisement, among other complex factors perpetuates the underrepresentation and low persistence of African Americans in academic programs. Using viable social identity and communities of practice as theoretical underpinnings, this qualitative study into the lives of 37 aspiring and current African American computer scientists produced findings that illuminate the significance of interpersonal relationships that promote persistence in homogeneous, unwelcoming STEM academic environments. These findings include positive peer interactions and modeling, parental and familial nurturing, and multifaceted mentorship.

Authors

• LaVar Jovan Charleston, University of Wisconsin - Madison

• Jonathan Berhanu, University of Wisconsin - Madison

• Jerlando F.L. Jackson, University of Wisconsin - Madison

• Raul Leon, Eastern Michigan University