Stratification of Access to STEM Career Technical Education Opportunities and Student Participation

• In Event: The Impacts of Programs, Policy, and the Pandemic

Abstract

Strengthening the STEM workforce and increasing STEM participation by underrepresented minorities and females are critical goals of our nation. Project Lead the Way(PLTW) was first introduced two decades ago to improve STEM Career Technical Education(CTE). The program is growing rapidly and prior studies showed potential benefits. This study investigates how access to and participation in PLTW differ by race and gender and what between- and within-school factors contribute to participation gaps. Results show greater program participation among black and Hispanic students due to greater access to the program although their participation rates are lower than white students in schools offering PLTW. Pre-high school academic skills and school context contribute to race/ethnic participation gaps, but not gender gaps.

Authors

• Takako Nomi, Saint Louis University
  Presenting Author

• Michael Podgursky, University of Missouri
  Non-Presenting Author

• Darrin Joseph DeChane, Saint Louis University
  Non-Presenting Author