Disaggregating the STEM Achievement of Asian American and Pacific Islander Students

• In Event: 45.034 - STEM at the Intersections: Navigating STEM Fields From Minoritized Positionalities

Abstract

The “model minority” myth masks gaps in education outcomes that exist for Asian American and Pacific Islander (AAPI) communities. As the number of students from AAPI backgrounds continues to increase, it is crucial to recognize the unique experiences of AAPI individuals. Using a nationally representative sample, this study disaggregates STEM-related educational and occupational outcomes for AAPI students (n = 1,407). Chi-square and MANOVA results indicate that AAPI students report similar school climate and educational expectations; and yet, high school math and science achievement and STEM college attainment differ by ethnic subgroup, sex, and generation status. By disaggregating outcomes for AAPI students, findings from our study can reveal ways that teachers and administrators can better support AAPI students’ success.

Authors

• Duhita Mahatmya, University of Iowa

• Asih Asikin-Garmager, University of Iowa

• Soeun Park, The University of Iowa