The Influence of Science Talk on STEM Identity: Expanding the Identity Framework

• In Event: Examining Factors in the Development of Science Capital and Identity

Abstract

Both social and personal identity perspectives call attention to the role that others play in the construction of individuals’ self-concepts around STEM (i.e., STEM identity). Given the importance of interactions with others in identity de/construction, language becomes a tool by which individuals negotiate their identities, both communicating feedback and encoding the cultural practices of the communities to which they seek admittance. Here we extend prior findings linking everyday (i.e., informal) STEM-related conversations and STEM identity development, drawing from college student interviews about childhood science talk experiences. We demonstrate how these events contributed to their identification (or deidentification) with STEM. Our research further describes the kinds of everyday conversations with parents that contribute to interest, recognition, and identity development in STEM.

Authors

• Remy Dou, Florida International University

• Heidi Cian, Maine Mathematics and Science Alliance