Belonging in STEM: an interactive, iterative approach to create and maintain a diverse learning community

Area of Science:

• STEM education and research
• Diversity and inclusion in science

Background:

• Diversity drives innovation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
• STEM fields face challenges in retaining diverse populations.
• A sense of belonging is identified as critical for diversity retention.

Purpose of the Study:

• To propose an iterative process for enhancing a sense of belonging.
• To improve diversity retention in laboratory settings.

Main Methods:

• Implementing a process of self-reflection for laboratory members.
• Encouraging community collective action to foster belonging.

Main Results:

• The proposed iterative process aims to improve belonging.
• Focus on self-reflection and collective action within labs.

Conclusions:

• Enhancing a sense of belonging is key to retaining diversity in STEM.
• The iterative process offers a practical approach for laboratories.