Exploring How Culture Matters in Building Culturally Responsive Contexts for Community College Students Pursuing STEM

• In Event: Institutional Strategies to Positively Influence Student Outcomes

Abstract

This study explores the role culture plays in facilitating culturally responsive educational environments for community college students pursuing STEM. Utilizing culturally responsive pedagogy as a theoretical backdrop, we elucidate the relevance of culture within STEM learning environments. Our findings suggest that culture plays a significant role in promoting feelings of connectedness or disconnectedness within STEM learning environments. We also demonstrate the role STEM faculty members play in disrupting exclusion and facilitating culturally responsive learning environments for community college students pursuing STEM.

Authors

• Brenda Lee Anderson Wadley, The University of Arizona

• Regina J. Deil-Amen, University of Arizona