The importance of personal and contextual background factors on declaration of STEM majors

A focus on Native American undergraduates

Bibliographic Data

ID21392840
AuthorsAlise Dabdoub (0000-0002-6199-5190, Data Science Hogan Assessment Systems Tulsa Oklahoma USA, corresponding author), Lori Anderson Snyder (University of Oklahoma), Allyson Finken (0000-0002-5195-5881, Department of Psychology The University of Oklahoma Norman Oklahoma USA), Li Lin (0000-0002-7584-9186, People Analytics Meta Platforms Inc. New York New York USA)
Year2023
Volume107
Issue2
Pages459-509
Publication date2023-03-01
Peer ReviewedYes
Open AccessYes
TypeARTICLE
VenueScience Education (JOURNAL)
Journal identifiersISSN: 0036-8326 • E-ISSN: 1098-237X
PublisherWiley (PUBLISHER • GB)
DOI10.1002/sce.21777
OpenAlexW4309008701
LanguageEN
Citations received1
References cited102

Utilizing Social Cognitive Career Theory (SCCT), we investigated the importance of identity‐based factors such as personal inputs and contextual affordances (e.g., having children, being married or employed, school‐family conflict, stress, participating in Native American cultural activities) in understanding Native American undergraduates' intentions and decision to major in STEM fields. Past studies have examined the role of SCCT in undergraduate students' major choice and the underrepresentation of certain marginalized groups in STEM majors. Yet few studies have examined if these relationships extend to Native American undergraduates or how the SCCT model may vary based on the complex identities Native American peoples may hold. The findings highlight the importance of contextualizing major choice through a Native American lens. For Native American students, we find being married or employed, having children, and family stress negatively impact intent to major in STEM fields. We also find support for several SCCT variables and intent to major in STEM disciplines. Specifically, we discuss fostering identity as a scientist as a fruitful avenue for increasing intent to major in STEM fields. Results are compared to a White undergraduate group and implications are discussed for institutions of higher education and Tribal governments and leaders

Identity (music) · Native american · Social cognitive theory · Sociology · Career Development and Diversity · Education, Achievement, and Giftedness · Higher Education Research Studies · Psychology · Social Psychology