Enhancing LSAMP Program Effectiveness: Mapping Non-Cognitive Growth Opportunities Using Wright Maps

• In Event: Rasch Analysis and Educational Measurement

Abstract

The Louis Stokes Alliance for Minority Participation (LSAMP) program is designed to support underrepresented minority students in STEM disciplines during their college transition. This study examines the program's effectiveness by utilizing Wright Map analysis to identify growth opportunities in non-cognitive factors among LSAMP scholars. Drawing on established measures of academic motivation, grit, self-efficacy, experiences with racial microaggressions, STEM attitudes, and belonging, a comprehensive tool was developed and administered to participants across multiple institutions at two timepoints (pre: n = 403; post: n = 96). The Wright Map analysis revealed item difficulties and scholar abilities, highlighting areas for targeted improvement. For instance, the difficulty in sharing research results pointed to gaps in program support, while the ease with which scholars identified as hard workers underscored the program's success in fostering a strong work ethic. By focusing on these non-cognitive factors, the LSAMP program can better support minority students' academic and professional achievements in STEM fields, providing actionable insights for enhancing support mechanisms and tailoring interventions to meet scholars' needs effectively.

Authors

• Jaylene Patterson, University of Kentucky

• Kelly D Bradley, University of Kentucky

• Nuren Dihan, University of Kentucky

• Lynnette Michaluk, Western Virginia University