Master Narratives in STEM: Student Insights on DEI-Focused Learning Materials in Gateway Courses (Poster 43)

• In Event: AERA Poster Session Friday 1:30 p.m.
  In Poster Session: Diversity, Inclusion, and Equity in Higher Education

Abstract

One way to address the persistent lack of DEI in STEM may be to examine whether course materials are compelling and relevant for historically and systematically excluded students. We interviewed students in gateway STEM courses using digital courseware intentionally designed to address DEI to investigate students’ reactions to DEI-focused content. Students’ reactions pointed to the prevalent master narrative that the STEM disciplines should be devoid of DEI-focused content. Students’ reasons for holding such beliefs were largely explained by three themes: DEI content is a distraction from the main content, DEI content may result in undesirable uneven experiences for students, and DEI content is better suited for non-STEM disciplines. We discuss the importance of recognizing and dismantling such notions in STEM.

Authors

• Yoon Ha Choi, Digital Promise

• Vanessa Peters Hinton, Digital Promise