#STEMfluences: The Social Interactions and Scientific Identity Formation of Black Males Successfully Navigating Computing Sciences

• In Event: Roundtable Session 41
  In Roundtable Session: (Psycho)Social Factors and Identity in Undergraduate Success

Abstract

Research studies indicate African American males face multiple and reinforcing obstacles by choosing to pursue science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM)-related majors and professions. In the STEM field of computing sciences, isolation, inadequate advisement, among other complex factors perpetuate the underrepresentation and low persistence of African American males in academic programs. Utilizing viable social identity and communities of practice as theoretical underpinnings, this qualitative study into the lives of aspiring and current African American male computer scientists produced findings that illuminate the significance of STEMfluences, or social interactions that promote socialization, STEM identity, confidence, and success in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics related disciplines like the computing sciences, that promote persistence through degree attainment in homogeneous, unwelcoming STEM academic environments.

Authors

• LaVar Jovan Charleston, University of Wisconsin - Madison

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