Seeing Yourself as a Scientist: Increasing Science Identity Using Professional Development Modules Designed for...

Area of Science:

• Biology Education
• Career Development
• STEM

Background:

• Students with STEM degrees may not pursue STEM careers without explicit guidance.
• Effective career development is crucial for aligning education with professional aspirations.

Purpose of the Study:

• To introduce seven career development modules for biology students.
• To enhance students' self-confidence and their science and biology identities.
• To motivate students to consider diverse biology careers.

Main Methods:

• Implementation of seven career development modules in biology courses.
• Modules designed to emphasize the value of a biology degree and scientific skills.
• Encouraging student engagement and class discussions.

Main Results:

• The modules collectively enhanced students' science identities.
• The modules significantly increased students' biology identities.
• These enhanced identities are predictors for STEM career entry.

Conclusions:

• Career development modules are effective in increasing student science and biology identities.
• Explicit career guidance is necessary for students to pursue STEM careers.
• These modules provide a practical approach to improve STEM career pathways.