Using Embeddedness Theory to Understand and Promote Persistence in STEM Majors

Abstract

Student retention in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) majors is a national concern. Research typically emphasizes attrition in STEM fields by examining factors driving students to switch career paths. This study used embeddedness theory to instead focus on factors that better anchor students within their majors. Focus groups were conducted with 21 junior and senior students majoring in STEM to contextualize the 3 tenets of embeddedness: fit, links, and sacrifice. Results supported embeddedness theory as a viable framework for understanding and promoting STEM student retention because fit, links, and sacrifice were all cited as factors that enriched the student experience. Gender differences suggested a heightened sense of pride for women as compared with men who pursue STEM degrees. Results inform ways to contextualize quantitative measures of STEM embeddedness. To facilitate retention, career counselors, instructors, and others may assist students to frame challenge as normal among persisting STEM upperclassmen.

Cultivating Leadership in Adult and Continuing Education: Developing Adults Using Reflection Within Mentoring Experiences

“…Mentoring is a support strategy. Support strategies have been developed to address issues of embedded conceptions of self in professions, to connect prior learning to current education and career challenges for meaning-making, and to enhance professionals' abilities to link prior learning, career challenges, and conceptions of career integration (DeChenne, Enochs, & Needham, 2012;Morganson, Major, Streets, Litano, & Myers, 2015;& O'Meara, Lounder, & Campbell, 2014). One particular support strategy that addresses and scaffolds a variety of career skills, conceptualizations, and challenges is informal mentoring (Austin et al, 2009;Bancroft, Benson, & Johnson-Whitt, 2015;Tull et at., 2012).…”

Entrepreneurial identity: Professional virtues moderate attraction and persistence

“…Mere aptitude is not enough to attract aspirants to the rigors of becoming a professional scientist. The woeful state of STEM (science, technology, engineering, and math) attests to the difficulties of attracting aspirants-even highly talented ones-to the profession (Morganson et. al., 2015).…”

A Passionate Approach to Recruiting and Retaining Engineering Research Participants

“…Perhaps the research problem is important for society and could address important ideals, such as inclusiveness, equal opportunity, or gender and racial equity. For instance, women in engineering and science majors have reported a desire to “give back” to their community, particularly to other women looking to advance in the field (Morganson, Major, Streets, Litano, & Myers, ). Thus, framing the research as an opportunity to contribute to the experiences of others in engineering and science fields can appeal to women participants and engage them in the work.…”