Tracking Patterns in Secondary Students' Intention to Major in STEM (Poster 13)

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Three
  In Poster Session: Division C Science Poster Session Two

Abstract

This study investigates how 1464 10th grade students’ current selves (high school experience, math and science efficacy, parent, and teacher expectations) affect their prospective future selves (i.e., choosing a STEM-major in college). Using logistic regressions, we found that males are 1.7 times more likely to consider STEM majors in college than females. Students who participated in more STEM clubs and STEM competitions (e.g., science fairs, mathematics Olympiads) were more likely to plan to major in a STEM-related major in college compared to students who participated in fewer clubs and competitions. Students with higher math self-efficacy and science self-efficacy scores were 1.3 and 1.5 times more likely to choose a STEM-related area in college compared to students with lower self-efficacy scores.

Authors

• Adam Sahin, Harmony Public Schools
  Presenting Author

• Hersh C. Waxman, Texas A&M University
  Presenting Author

• Kim Boddie Wright, Rice University - Kinder Institute
  Presenting Author