“I Have This. I'm Set": Expanding Human and Social Capital Through Out-of-School STEM Programs

• In Event: Using Out-of-School Time as an Anchor for Social Capital and Community Development

Abstract

This study explores how participation in an out-of-school time (OST) STEM summer program over multiple years improves STEM learning and motivation among a diverse sample of adolescents. In this study, we focus on a qualitative case study of a multi-site OST STEM summer program in the southwest U.S. We discuss how students who participate in OST STEM summer programs enhance their human and social capital, which increases their STEM learning and interest. Specifically, we find that participation leads to advanced STEM learning, expanding one’s social network to include individuals with shared interests in STEM, and access and interaction with real-world STEM knowledge.

Authors

• Kahlí Romano, Claremont Graduate University

• Vicki J Lynton, Alamo Colleges - Northwest Vista College

• Guan Saw, Claremont Graduate University

• Ryan Culbertson, The University of Texas - San Antonio

• Pesha K Mabrie, The University of Texas - San Antonio