Undergraduates' Experiences With Experiential Learning in a STEM Recruitment Program

• In Event: Career Development Through the Life-Span

Abstract

Science, Technology, Engineering, and Math (STEM) recruitment programs are growing at post-secondary institutions in response to the national shortage of trained workers in STEM fields. Many programs prove effective in recruiting students into STEM majors with research indicating the benefits of experiential learning activities in program outcomes. This study qualitatively examines the experiences of first-year undergraduate students in a STEM-focused career planning class within a STEM recruitment program. Findings illuminated the importance of STEM faculty guest lectures and research lab visits in providing meaningful opportunities to learn more about specific STEM fields and to make career decisions. Recommendations for programmatic improvements are also made through critical feedback on the structure and content of these experiential activities.

Authors

• Christopher Belser, University of Central Florida

• Diandra J Prescod, Penn State University