Experiences, Activities, and Personal Characteristics as Predictors of Interest and Engagement in STEM-Focused Summer Programs

• In Event: STEM Interventions for Learning and Motivation

Abstract

We explore how experiences and activities employed in the delivery of out-of-school-time (OST) STEM programs are associated with youth interest and engagement during programming. Data were collected in nine summer programs using multiple methods including video, experience sampling, and surveys. Across programs, youth were more engaged and interested in program activities when they: perceived them as more challenging and relevant, felt they were learning something new, and experienced positive affect. Analyses identify specific program activities that are most likely to foster challenge, relevance, learning and affect, and explore the role of youth characteristics in these relationships. Results are discussed in terms of the potential role of OST programs in cultivating youth interest in STEM, and implications for quality youth programming.

Authors

• Jennifer A. Schmidt, Michigan State University

• Joshua Michael Rosenberg, The University of Tennessee - Knoxville

• Patrick Neil Beymer, Michigan State University

• Neil Naftzger, American Institutes for Research

• Lee Shumow, Northern Illinois University