Poster #38 - Institutional Characteristics Influencing Underrepresented Students' STEM Preparation in Inclusive STEM High Schools

• In Event: 61.072 - MTCC Poster Session 13
  In Poster Session: 61.072-6 - School Effectiveness and School Improvement

Abstract

This study examined the factors influencing underrepresented students’ STEM preparation in Inclusive STEM High Schools. A case study was conducted using semi-structured interviews with eight participants who graduated from ISHSs in Texas. Students’ STEM high school experiences were classified into nine categories: 1) innovative STEM and non-STEM instructions, 2) rigorous STEM curriculum, 3) integration of technology and engineering into classrooms, 4) quality of teachers, 5) real-world STEM partnership, 6) informal STEM opportunities, 7) academic and social support for struggling students, 8) emphasis on STEM courses, majors, and careers, and 9) preparing for a college workload. The study found that these characteristics can help in establishing a STEM-focused school environment that can potentially increase students’ interests and capabilities in STEM fields.

Authors

• Ali BICER, University of Wyoming

• Richard Kitchen, University of Wyoming

• Yujin Lee, Texas A&M University - College Station

• Hasan Aydin, Florida Gulf Coast University

• Robert M. Capraro, Texas A&M University - College Station