Empowering Girls of Color Through Authentic Science Internships

• In Event: 30.078 - Perspectives and Issues for Diverse Students in Urban Schools

Abstract

The underrepresentation of girls and students of color in STEM fields, particularly in science, is an ongoing issue that is very well documented. There is a limited amount of research that provides insight on experiences of girls, especially girls of color, who have been exposed to authentic science experiences. This paper interrogates the effects of experiential learning on students’ science identity and interest in pursuing a career in STEM, specifically for girls of color. This study provides insight into girls of color experience of authentic science internships where they followed a traditional working scientist schedule, the use of, or referencing of specific science knowledge, and use of traditional science lab equipment.

Authors

• Edmund S Adjapong, Seton Hall University

• Christopher Emdin, Teachers College, Columbia University

• Ian Levy, Manhattan College