112 Self-Efficacy of Hispanic Women in Stemm: A Mixed Study

Abstract

OBJECTIVES/GOALS: Previous literature has suggested that the lack of participation of minorities and women in the science field affects research centers’ quality and competitiveness. This study assessed perceived self-efficacy, obstacles and factors that influenced the development of Hispanic women in a STEMM career. METHODS/STUDY POPULATION: This project followed a mixed-method approach with a convergent design. It included two simultaneous phases: an electronic survey as the quantitative phase and semi-structured interviews as the qualitative phase. Data was collected from an academic-research institution in Puerto Rico. A total of 71 questionnaires were collected applying the Baessler & Schwarzer General Self-efficacy Scale. Five women were interviewed using a semi-structure questionnaire. These women hold a tenure-track faculty position, have held a leadership position, had more than ten publications in peer-reviewed journals, and have received grants for research projects. The data was analyzed by triangulation. RESULTS/ANTICIPATED RESULTS: The General Self-efficacy scale sum scores ranged from 26 to 40 and a mean score of 34.25 (SD=3.79). Items where all answered the higher score stated, ’Thanks to my qualities and resources I can overcome unforeseen situations’ and ’I can solve most problems if I put in the necessary effort.’ Age was the only variable showing statistically significant relationship with general self-efficacy. The most relevant factor facilitating the development in STEMM fields’ careers was the family support. Other contributing factors were the opportunities of employment, positions, professional development, financial status, early experiences during middle and high school, and good mentors, among others. DISCUSSION/SIGNIFICANCE: Results identified some contributing factors and barriers for Hispanic women’s career development in STEMM. Strategies must be implemented as early as middle school for girls showing interest in this field and should include administrative resources to support the career development of women.