"Cracking the Egg": Early Experiences That Engage Underrepresented Minorities With Science and Medicine

• In Event: AERA Poster Session 3
  In Poster Session: Science Teaching and Learning

Abstract

Broadening participation in the sciences and diversifying the biomedical research workforce is critical to expanding health care access for underserved communities and developing culturally inclusive research agendas. We investigated the types of early experiences that support interest development in science and medicine for minorities underrepresented in these fields. Our analysis of the rich, narrative data from the over 40 participants we interviewed reveal the value of early experiences that 1) help students recognize their innate curiosity to ask questions and make discoveries about the world around them; 2) reify the process of scientific research and/or the nature of the academic medicine profession; and 3) increase awareness of the potential to make communal connections through the practical application of scientific findings.

Authors

• Claire Mitchell, Montana State University

• Robert H. Tai, University of Virginia