Out-of-School Experiences That Support Latinx Students' Interest in Pursuing an Engineering Career

• In Event: Diversity and Representation: Experiences That Support Effective Engineering Teaching and Learning

Abstract

Out-of-school learning experiences and interest development are important contributors towards pursuing a STEM career. This study sought to understand the out-of-school experiences that triggered and sustained interest to pursue an engineering major for Latinx students. Understanding the experiences that are influencing Latinx students’ pathway into engineering is important to broaden participation. Using a sample of over 3,000 Latinx students, we examined the out-of-school experiences that triggered and sustained interest in engineering during middle school and high school. We found that talking with friends and family about science, tinkering with mechanical and electrical devices supported engineering interest. Participation in STEM competitions had the greatest effect of fostering engineering interest and Latinx women were more likely to engage in competitions than men.

Authors

• Dina Verdin, Arizona State University

• Gerhard Sonnert, Harvard University

• Philip M. Sadler, Harvard University