Factors Associated with Interest in Research in CUREs

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Sunday 1:45 pm - Gold 3
  In Roundtable Session: Becoming Scientists: Pathways of Identity, Interest, and Belonging

Abstract

Course-based undergraduate research experiences (CUREs) offer accessible pathways to research, particularly for students underrepresented in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM). This study examined how sense of belonging, science self-efficacy, and science community values predict interest in research careers among 567 undergraduates while exploring moderating effects of demographic characteristics. Survey data were analyzed using multiple linear regression and dependent samples t-tests. Sense of belonging significantly predicted research career interest (p < .001). Gender and first-generation status were found to moderate the association between interest in research careers and science community values. All measures showed a significant increase post-CUREs (p < .001). These findings can guide efforts to increase interest in research careers and ultimately strengthen persistence and equity in STEM.

Authors

• Maham Khalid, University of Arizona

• Priscila M Ledezma, University of Arizona

• Kealie Walker, University of Arizona

• Adriana D. Cimetta, University of Arizona

• Courtney Leligdon, University of Arizona

• Kimberly Sierra, University of Arizona