Pre-College Factors of STEM Major Choices: Analyzing the High School Longitudinal Study of 2009

• In Event: What Matters for STEM Participation in College? A Longitudinal View of STEM Identities and STEM Pathways

Abstract

Expanding the science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) workforce has been a pivotal topic for researchers and policy makers. This study aims to examine the pre-college factors that influence students’ STEM major choices in college using data from the High School Longitudinal Study of 2009. Logistic regression models indicated that students with higher math and science identity scores are more likely to pursue STEM disciplines in college. Students scored higher in math self-efficacy are more likely to choose a STEM major. Students who are in schools that partner with colleges offering math/science summer programs are more likely to choose a STEM major in college. This highlights the significance of collaborating with universities providing math/science summer programs for school administrations.

Authors

• Yuting Li, American Institutes for Research

• Charles Yeomans, American Institutes for Research

• Colleen Marie Gaffney, American Institutes for Research