Working Together: The Role of STEM Center Collaborations in Promoting STEM Student Success

• In Event: AERA Roundtable Session 10
  In Roundtable Session: Strategies for Success in STEM

Abstract

This paper discusses the need and desire for undergraduate STEM centers at community colleges and universities with a focus on their critical role in supporting minoritized students. Using data collected from the Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (LSAMP) Pre-Alliance planning grant, focus groups were conducted by students at two universities and four community college campuses. These participant responses help guide the recommendations for the functionality of STEM centers for the good of marginalized students. We posit that STEM centers on campuses can be hubs for connection, facilitate engagement in diverse areas of STEM work, and help establish pipelines for student transfer between institutions. Finally, we discuss critical resources needed when developing STEM centers to help serve historically marginalized students.

Authors

• Jon McNaughtan, Texas Tech University

• Jessica L Spott, Texas Tech University

• Raegan Higgins, Texas Tech University

• Dimitra J. Smith, Texas A&M University - Commerce