A Mixed-Methods Study of the Experiences of Undergraduate Latina Students in Computing

• In Event: Women Experiences in STEM Education

Abstract

This mixed-methods study examined the collegiate trajectories of Latina students in computing. Specifically, this study employed a national dataset to gain a broad understanding of Latina students who enroll in introductory computing courses and their trajectories into computing majors. The study utilized interviews to gain greater depth in understanding how they made sense of their identities as Latina women in computing fields. Quantitative analyses found a majority Latinas are first-generation college students, a third of the sample had parents working in STEM or in computing, and Latina students’ persistence in the major declines over time. Qualitative findings suggest that extra-curricular activities in college such as participating in identity-based organizations were crucial in building students’ sense of belonging and computing identities.

Authors

• Daisy Ramirez, University of California - Los Angeles

• Kathleen Lehman, University of California - Los Angeles

• Sarah Rodriguez, Texas A&M University - Commerce

• Linda J. Sax, University of California - Los Angeles