Impact of Explicitly Teaching STEM Careers on Students’ Interest in Pursuing a STEM Career Among 8th Grade Students
Date of Award
Spring 5-14-2021
Document Type
Project (696 or 796 registration)
Degree Name
Master of Science in Curriculum & Instruction
Department
Graduate Studies
Committee Chair
Aaron Peterson
Keywords
STEM, Middle School, Self-Efficacy
Abstract
The purpose of this study was to determine effective strategies that can be used in the middle school classroom to increase student interest in STEM careers and topics. The study aimed to determine the effect of exposing students to the diversity of available STEM careers on their interest in STEM careers. Specifically, the study examined the effect on students of color and female students, as they are often underrepresented and unengaged in science, technology, engineering and math topics. The study utilized the strategy of mentorship, as diverse mentors from these fields taught about their specific careers. A pre/post survey was given to understand the effect of the career intervention on student STEM self-efficacy.
Recommended Citation
Dosland, Katherine, "Impact of Explicitly Teaching STEM Careers on Students’ Interest in Pursuing a STEM Career Among 8th Grade Students" (2021). Dissertations, Theses, and Projects. 529.
https://red.mnstate.edu/thesis/529