Research

With funding from the National Science Foundation, the MemphiSTEM project will support academically talented engineering students with demonstrated financial need at the University of Memphis. The project leadership team will implement, research, evaluate, and refine a carefully planned, multifaceted program that will incorporate evidence-based best practices alongside several innovative strategies, including a STEM Ambassador program. The project will generate new knowledge in STEM education by investigating a variety of mechanisms for supporting engineering students in their development of a STEM identity--the lack of which is a fundamental reason students often select out of STEM majors and careers.

The project includes exploration of an extensive set of research questions examining factors influencing development of STEM identity and the resulting impact on student success, attitudes, workforce readiness, and STEM self-efficacy.

An important outcome of the project will be the development and dissemination of a vetted, practical, sustainable, and transportable model to recruit and retain academically talented students with financial need and provide them with avenues for success in STEM studies and careers.