A Fixed Effects Model of STEM Occupational Aspirations of U.S. Adolescents

• In Event: Research in STEM and Career and Technical Education

Abstract

Using data from the High School Longitudinal Study of 2009, we examined prominent time-varying factors influencing the odds of adolescents expressing STEM-related career aspirations. Fixed effects models revealed that math utility and science identity were significantly associated with increased odds of aspiring a STEM-related occupation. Math achievement and science interest were significantly related to an increased likelihood aspiring to STEM-related occupations in the 11th grade, but decreased chances of STEM-related occupations in the 9th grade. Significant gender differences in STEM-related occupational aspirations over time was also detected. Results inform theory and practice related to educational and career counseling for adolescents, especially women, as they consider career options and make decisions about postsecondary academic and occupational options, particularly in STEM-related fields.

Authors

• In Heok Lee, University of Georgia

• Jay W. Rojewski, University of Georgia