Profiles of STEM Vocational Interests: Relations With Sociodemographics and Math Academic Interest

• In Event: Research on STEM and Career/College Topics

Abstract

People may possess STEM interest typologies that are complex, reflecting varying levels of multiple basic interests in combination. However, this complexity is seldom reflected in circular and dimensional models of interest, which are typically theorized at a general level of specificity. We adopted a multidimensional, person-centered perspective to investigate profiles of students’ STEM-related basic vocational interests and examine predictors of profile membership. Based on data from community college and school students, evidence was obtained for four qualitatively and quantitatively distinct profiles of STEM-related vocational interest in both samples. Profile membership was found to be predicted by math academic interest, gender, and under-represented minority status in line with theoretical expectations.

Authors

• Harsha Perera, University of Nevada - Las Vegas

• Matthew L. Bernacki, University of North Carolina Chapel Hill

• Candace Walkington, Southern Methodist University