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An Integrated Analysis of School Students' Aspirations for STEM Careers: Which Student and School Factors Are Most Predictive?

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Bibliographic Details
Title: An Integrated Analysis of School Students' Aspirations for STEM Careers: Which Student and School Factors Are Most Predictive?
Language: English
Authors: Holmes, Kathryn, Gore, Jennifer, Smith, Max, Lloyd, Adam
Source: International Journal of Science and Mathematics Education. Apr 2018 16(4):655-675.
Availability: Springer. 233 Spring Street, New York, NY 10013. Tel: 800-777-4643; Tel: 212-460-1500; Fax: 212-348-4505; e-mail: service-ny@springer.com; Web site: http://www.springerlink.com
Peer Reviewed: Y
Page Count: 21
Publication Date: 2018
Document Type: Journal Articles
Reports - Research
Descriptors: Meta Analysis, STEM Education, Science Careers, Predictor Variables, Science Education, Student Surveys, Career Choice, Regression (Statistics), Academic Achievement, Science Interests, Student Attitudes, Cultural Capital, Parent Background, Gender Differences, Occupational Aspiration
DOI: 10.1007/s10763-016-9793-z
ISSN: 1571-0068
Abstract: Declining enrolments in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines and a lack of interest in STEM careers are concerning at a time when society is becoming more reliant on complex technologies. We examine student aspirations for STEM careers by drawing on surveys conducted annually from 2012 to 2015. School students in years 3 to 12 (n = 6492) were asked to indicate their occupational choices. A logistic regression analysis showed that being in the older cohorts, possessing high cultural capital, being male, having a parent in a STEM occupation and high prior achievement in reading and numeracy, were significant. This analysis provides a strong empirical basis for school-based initiatives to improve STEM participation. In particular, strategies should target the following: the persistent lack of interest by females in some careers, improving student academic achievement in both literacy and numeracy and expanding knowledge of STEM careers, especially for students without familial STEM connections.
Abstractor: As Provided
Number of References: 54
Entry Date: 2018
Accession Number: EJ1172611
Database: ERIC
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Abstract:Declining enrolments in science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines and a lack of interest in STEM careers are concerning at a time when society is becoming more reliant on complex technologies. We examine student aspirations for STEM careers by drawing on surveys conducted annually from 2012 to 2015. School students in years 3 to 12 (n = 6492) were asked to indicate their occupational choices. A logistic regression analysis showed that being in the older cohorts, possessing high cultural capital, being male, having a parent in a STEM occupation and high prior achievement in reading and numeracy, were significant. This analysis provides a strong empirical basis for school-based initiatives to improve STEM participation. In particular, strategies should target the following: the persistent lack of interest by females in some careers, improving student academic achievement in both literacy and numeracy and expanding knowledge of STEM careers, especially for students without familial STEM connections.
ISSN:1571-0068
DOI:10.1007/s10763-016-9793-z