Synthesis of Career Development Theories and Interventions Supporting Meaningful STEM Education at Elementary Level

• In Event: AERA Poster Session 9
  In Poster Session: Individual and Contextual Factors Affecting Child and Adolescent Development

Abstract

The education system has increased its focus on making the elementary school curriculum more focused to get children interested in STEM fields. However, most schools do not have support system to include the rigorous curriculum required. In this case, universities and corporates are forming meaningful collaborations with schools and designing interventions, which focus on STEM, based curriculum. The intervention design should be purposeful so that directed efforts to develop the children’s career mindset. The theories around career development among elementary children suggest that with the right guidance and advice, children can be motivated to develop a career mindset. This paper thus evaluates how theories inform the design of interventions and what elements to consider for future intervention designs.

Authors

• Bhagyashree Barhate, Texas A&M University - College Station

• Beverly J. Irby, Texas A&M University - College Station

• Rafael Lara-Alecio, Texas A&M University - College Station

• Sharmila Pathikonda, Texas A&M University - College Station

• Fuhui Tong, Texas A&M University - College Station

• Cindy Lynn Guerrero, Texas A&M University - College Station