Translational Mindset in STEM: A Structural and Psychometric Examination

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Wednesday 9:45 am - Gold 3
  In Roundtable Session: Innovations in Research Production and Translation: Challenges, Possibilities, and Future Directions

Abstract

This study introduces and validates the Translational Mindset Scale (TMS), adapted from Liñán and Chen’s (2009) model of entrepreneurial intention to assess researchers’ readiness to translate academic work beyond the university. Using data from 257 U.S.-based STEM academics, confirmatory factor analysis and item response theory supported a reliable four-factor structure: Personal Attraction, Self-Efficacy, Perceived Social Norms, and Translation Intention. Structural equation modeling showed that intention was strongly predicted by Personal Attraction and Self-Efficacy. Perceived Social Norms had a negative direct effect but a positive indirect effect through Self-Efficacy. Non-faculty researchers reported higher Perceived Social Norms, while those at R2 institutions reported lower Self-Efficacy—highlighting how context, not mindset, may limit translational engagement.

Authors

• Angela Murray, University of Kansas

• Jose Fabian Elizondo-Gonzalez, University of Kansas

• Trina E. Emler, University of Kansas