This study investigates the disparity in research involvement among STEM majors at a primarily undergraduate institution in southern California in fall 2016. Subjects of the study were STEM majors in four disciplines (n=915) with a curriculum requirement of research for chemistry and biochemistry majors. The research questions were to identify 1) how research experience may differentially influence STEM persistence by demographic and educational background variables, and 2) perceptions of obstacles and assistance to the research experience. Data were collected through an online survey with Likert-style items and open-ended response questions. Data were analyzed qualitatively for emergent themes. Preliminary results indicate chemistry majors were more likely to pursue an advanced degree and reported fewer obstacles to obtaining a research experience than biology majors. Respondents perceived time and communication as the greatest obstacles to a research experience. The findings may have implications on the impact of research involvement on STEM retention and persistence.

Impact of curricular and noncurricular research involvement on STEM persistence in a primarily undergraduate institution

255th National Meeting (2018)

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