Navigating Research Pathways: The Role of Social Networks in Latinx STEM Students’ Access to Undergraduate Research Opportunities

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session Wednesday 3:45 pm - Gold 2
  In Roundtable Session: Identity development and support networks among STEM college students and professionals from non-dominant communities

Abstract

This mixed-methods study examines Latinx STEM undergraduates' social networks that th ey employ to enter research programs and their research experiences in a Hispanic-Serving Research Intensive University (HSRI). A focus on social networks is taken to understand the critical role of faculty, staff, friends and family members guiding, helping and preventing Latinx students from entering research laboratories. A critical mixed methods approach is applied with social networks and platicas methodology to examine both academic and non-academic social networks. Findings reveal various density and composition of social networks of Latinx students.

Author

• Katherine Arias Garcia, University of California - Irvine