This study explored the question of how research experience, required or unrequired, affects chemistry and biochemistry majors’ STEM persistence in a diverse, primarily undergraduate university in southern California. Data were collected quantitatively and qualitatively by administration of an online survey with Likert-style statements and open-ended responses (n=266). Quantitative analysis by frequencies using SPSS and qualitative analysis by emergent themes were performed. Obstacles to research chemistry students reported most frequently were, shortage of research positions, lack of effort by the students to seek opportunities, and unavailability of time. The most frequent suggestions offered by chemistry students to mitigate these obstacles were, more information about how to join a lab, expansion of available research positions, and greater communication with research professors to prevent the obstacles. Results suggest that required undergraduate research experience may have a correlation with STEM persistence and a student's’ confidence in securing a future job in the STEM field.

Impact of required research experience on chemistry and biochemistry undergraduates

255th National Meeting (2018)

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