Exploring the Characteristics and Experiences of Upward Transfer Students in Computing and Technology

• In Event: AERA Poster Session 8
  In Poster Session: Science Teaching and Learning: Equity and Social Justice in Science Education

Abstract

Upward transfer students represent a unique opportunity to broaden participation in STEM fields. Yet, they are often ignored in the literature on equity in STEM. Focusing specifically on computing majors across 15 universities, this paper reviews how the characteristics and experiences of upward transfer students differ from those who began their computing program at four-year universities. With some exceptions, findings reveal ways in which upward transfer students are markedly more diverse than their counterparts who did not transfer from a 2-year college. Yet, upward transfers also report significantly less support from their computing programs compared to their counterparts. These and other findings are discussed, focusing on implications for how institutions can support this unique and diverse group of computing students.

Author

• Jennifer M. Blaney, Northern Arizona University