An Exploration of the Factors that Motivate Gifted and Talented Latino Males and Females to Engage in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

Session Number

I02

Advisor(s)

Adrienne Coleman, Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy

Location

A-123

Start Date

28-4-2016 10:40 AM

End Date

28-4-2016 11:05 AM

Abstract

This study looked at the motivational factors of gifted and talented Latino males and females, who are enrolled in the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA), involved in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics education (STEM). The study explores the reasons behind IMSA’s Latino students being involved and engaged in STEM. Since there are not many Latinos engaged in STEM, this SIR explores the Latinos who are and why. Seven focus groups were conducted that targeted this demographic using a qualitative research, case study approach. The focus groups were digitally recorded and the information was transcribed and analyzed. The information was analyzed to search for common themes, patterns, and trends. The trends that emerged within the data were financial security in the future and giving back to the community/family. These trends are some of the main contributors that explain the motivation behind these students interest in pursuing STEM. The study explores potential reasons why there is a gap in Latino males and females involvement in STEM. This study can be used to inform programs/services designed to get more Latinos in STEM. A recommendation for future studies would be to explore ways in which the gap in STEM can be closed.


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Apr 28th, 10:40 AM Apr 28th, 11:05 AM

An Exploration of the Factors that Motivate Gifted and Talented Latino Males and Females to Engage in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics.

A-123

This study looked at the motivational factors of gifted and talented Latino males and females, who are enrolled in the Illinois Mathematics and Science Academy (IMSA), involved in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics education (STEM). The study explores the reasons behind IMSA’s Latino students being involved and engaged in STEM. Since there are not many Latinos engaged in STEM, this SIR explores the Latinos who are and why. Seven focus groups were conducted that targeted this demographic using a qualitative research, case study approach. The focus groups were digitally recorded and the information was transcribed and analyzed. The information was analyzed to search for common themes, patterns, and trends. The trends that emerged within the data were financial security in the future and giving back to the community/family. These trends are some of the main contributors that explain the motivation behind these students interest in pursuing STEM. The study explores potential reasons why there is a gap in Latino males and females involvement in STEM. This study can be used to inform programs/services designed to get more Latinos in STEM. A recommendation for future studies would be to explore ways in which the gap in STEM can be closed.