Postsecondary STEM Paths of High-Achieving Students in Math and Science: A Longitudinal Multilevel Investigation

• In Event: 18.050 - Life Beyond K–12 Gifted Education

Abstract

This study addressed the question why talented high school students in math and science, despite their high achievement in these fields, do not select, persist in, and succeed in postsecondary STEM pathways. Through an investigation using data of a nationally representative cohort of U.S. students, we examined a hypothetical model of a talent development path in STEM and found significant associations between several student- and school-level factors and traditionally desirable academic and career outcomes along STEM pathways. The unique patterns and needs of students identified as high-achieving are expected to be helpful for the improvement of policies and educational practices concerning those students.

Authors

• Soohyun Yi, Purdue University

• Marcia L. Gentry, Purdue University