STEM Across Space(s): Assessing the Role of Locale in the STEM Pipeline

• In Event: 28.035 - Diverse Learning and Computational Spaces Across STEM Context

Abstract

While researchers and policymakers have examined racial and gender inequity within the STEM pipeline, geographic considerations of diversity remain largely unaddressed. This study utilizes a spatial inequality framework to assess the impact of locale on STEM major and career outcomes. Through a quantitative analysis of a recent national longitudinal study (HSLS:09), the authors focus specifically on STEM outcomes for rural students. The analyses reveal that rurality does not appear to influence interest in STEM careers, but may present barriers to pursuing a STEM major in certain contexts. Other factors, such as sex, parental expectations, and access to AP course offerings are positively correlated with STEM outcomes. This study draws upon a customized locale scale to capture unique spatial characteristics.

Authors

• Andrew Crain, University of Georgia - Athens

• Karen L. Webber, University of Georgia

• Rebecca Perdomo, University of Georgia