Increasing STEM Skills, Knowledge and Interest Among Diverse Students: Results from an Intensive Summer Research Program at the University of California, San Francisco

Gino Galvez ¹, David W Killilea ², Sharla Berry ³

⁰Department of Psychology, California State University, Long Beach, CA 90840 USA.

Innovative Higher Education +

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August 19, 2024

View abstract on PubMed

Summary

The UCSF Summer Student Research Program (SSRP) significantly boosts research skills and academic outcomes for undergraduate students, including underrepresented minorities (URM). The program enhances critical thinking, science identity, and postgraduate aspirations, promoting diversity in STEM and biomedical sciences.

Area Of Science

Biomedical Sciences
STEM Education
Health Professions

Background

Underrepresented minority (URM) and non-URM undergraduate students in STEM fields often require targeted programs to enhance research skills and academic outcomes.
Intensive summer research programs provide immersive experiences crucial for developing scientific competencies and career aspirations.
The UCSF Summer Student Research Program (SSRP) is designed to offer such opportunities.

Purpose Of The Study

To evaluate the effectiveness of the UCSF Summer Student Research Program (SSRP) in improving research skills, academic outcomes, and post-baccalaureate aspirations.
To assess the program's impact on both underrepresented minority (URM) and non-URM undergraduate students in biomedical sciences and STEM.
To determine the program's contribution to diversifying STEM fields and health-related professions.

Main Methods

Analysis of pre- and post-program survey data from eight cohorts (N=315) of undergraduate students participating in the 9-week SSRP.
Statistical analysis included paired-sample t-tests and MANOVA to compare pre- and post-program outcomes.
Content analysis was employed to assess qualitative changes in participants' skills and aspirations.

Main Results

Significant improvements were observed in critical thinking, research abilities, science identity, applied science skills, and career readiness.
Participants demonstrated enhanced understanding of the research process, scientific thinking, science writing, and problem-solving skills.
Both URM and non-URM students showed comparable gains, and 87% expressed high likelihood of future research engagement, with increased interest in advanced degrees (MA, PhD, MD).

Conclusions

The UCSF Summer Student Research Program (SSRP) is effective in significantly enhancing academic outcomes and research skills for diverse undergraduate students.
The program's structure, including immersive research, mentorship, and learning communities, aligns with the persistence framework, fostering student success.
SSRP positively influences postgraduate aspirations, contributing to the diversification of STEM, biomedical sciences, and health-related professions.

Keywords:

Research skills STEM education Summer research program Underrepresented minority students