Structured and Unstructured STEM Experience in High School and Postsecondary STEM Aspiration

• In Event: 64.047 - Perspectives on Cultivating STEM Aspirations

Abstract

We explored how high school math- and science-related structured and unstructured activities are associated with aspirations to STEM major in college. Using expectancy-value theory and social cognitive career theory as our frameworks, we hypothesized that these STEM-related experiences, along with self-efficacy and interest, cultivate students’ aspiration to STEM fields. We conducted a propensity score-adjusted probit path analysis, using data from the High School Longitudinal Study (HSLS:2009). Results indicate that students accumulating more structured science experience and a better math proficiency during high school had a greater probability to aspire to STEM programs in college. Based on these findings, we recommend policy initiatives that increase opportunities for students to participate in structured STEM enrichment programs.

Authors

• Hsun-Yu Chan, Texas A&M University - Commerce

• Hyejin Choi, University of Georgia

• Meseret Hailu, The Ohio State University

• Melinda M. Whitford, University at Buffalo - SUNY

• Sheila Duplechain DeRouen

• Ya-Chi Hung, University of Southern California