Incorporating Culturally Relevant Education (CRE) in STEM Gateway Courses

Abstract

Critical pedagogyThis is an approach to teaching that embodies the tenets of critical theory and criticality. Critical pedagogy is underscored by the idea of addressing issues of domination in knowledge construction, with the idea of challenging that domination. Culturally relevant educationThis approach to teaching and learning encompasses critical pedagogy, culturally relevant pedagogy,

‘Scientists Like Me’: Using Culturally Relevant Information Literacy Instruction to Foster Student STEM Identity

“…Gay also asserted that "academic success and cultural consciousness are developed simultaneously," and that incorporating diverse cultural referents improves learning outcomes among underrepresented students (2018). Characteristics of CRP in STEM education include valuing and validating students' diverse backgrounds, using those differences as a strength in group work, using student-centered teaching strategies that encourage students to share lived experiences, as well as using inclusive curricular materials that reflect students' intersectional identities (Favero & Van Hoomissen, 2019;Fuller & Torres Rivera, 2021;Hamstra et al, 2021;Jackson et al, 2016;Johnson & Elliott, 2020;McCarthy et al, 2020;Sanders Johnson, 2021;Siritunga et al, 2011;Stevens et al, 2016;Younge et al, 2021).…”

Gatekeeping through assessment: Understanding a systemic problem in the STEM degree pipeline

“…Further, higher education research has taken a deficit approach to understanding the persistence and success of a more diverse student body (Hamstra et al, 2021) regarding these STEM gatekeeper courses. In terms of persistence and academic success, a few studies put the onus on student behaviors (e.g., study habits, work habits, and coping strategies; Suresh, 2006) and the first-year students themselves (Flanders, 2017).…”