Diversifying the STEM pipeline

Area of Science:

• STEM Education
• Biomedical and Health Sciences
• Educational Interventions

Background:

• Addressing underrepresentation of minority and low SES individuals in STEM.
• Need for targeted interventions to foster interest in STEM fields.

Purpose of the Study:

• Evaluate a two-year STEM intervention for underserved middle school students.
• Increase interest in biomedical and health sciences among minority and low SES students.

Main Methods:

• Two-year intensive, hands-on science and technology intervention (TRY-IT!).
• Quantitative and qualitative data collection from students, teachers, and parents.
• Comparison between intervention and control groups.

Main Results:

• Quantitative analysis showed no significant long-lasting differences between groups.
• Qualitative data revealed positive student attitudes towards the program and science exposure.
• Mixed assessment of the intervention's effectiveness.

Conclusions:

• Intervention aimed to boost positive attitudes and confidence in STEM careers.
• Importance of encouraging minority and low SES individuals in STEM.
• Insights provided for future STEM program development and research.