Improving STEM Program Evaluations Through Psychometric Quality of Self-Report Constructs (Poster 18)

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Friday 9:50 a.m.
  In Poster Session: Division C - Section 1d: Science Poster Session

Abstract

STEM program evaluations are often dependent on student self-reports of attitudes and beliefs about STEM topics to assess short-term changes that may lead to long term desirable outcomes, such as pursuing STEM careers as an adult. This project leverages over ten years of STEM program evaluation conducted by the research team across a range of programs and settings, including formal science education, informal out-of-school programs, and summer camps. Our goal was to establish updated validity and psychometric qualities for these widely used attitude scales. We found minor adjustments led to strong factor model fit and factor reliability.

Authors

• Theode Niyirinda, University of Alabama

• Daniel O. Oyeniran, University of Alabama

• Joni M. Lakin, University of Alabama