Cultivating a Sense of Belonging in STEM

Educators can strengthen students’ STEM identities by fostering a sense of belonging in their classrooms. This interactive infographic explores strategies for cultivating belonging through academic support, learning communities, and a focus on diversity and inclusion in STEM.

References

Hansen, M. J., Palakal, M. J., & White, L. J. (2023). The importance of STEM sense of belonging and academic hope in enhancing persistence for low-income, underrepresented STEM students. Journal for STEM Education Research, 7(2), 155–180. https://doi.org/10.1007/s41979-023-00096-8 Sellami, N., Toven-Lindsey, B., Levis-Fitzgerald, M., Barber, P. H., & Hasson, T. (2021). A unique and scalable model for increasing research engagement, STEM persistence, and entry into doctoral programs. CBE—Life Sciences Education, 20(1). https://doi.org/10.1187/cbe.20-09-0224 Valdez-Ward, E., Ulrich, R. N., Bennett, N., Martinez-Maldonado, E., Mattheis, A., Treseder, K. K., Takahashi, B., & Menezes, S. (2024). Science communicators from marginalized backgrounds challenge STEM cultural norms to promote community belonging. Journal of Science Communication, 23(4), A01. https://doi.org/10.22323/2.23040201 Wu, D. J., Gibson, T. M., Ziegenbein, L. M., Phillis, R. W., Zehnder, C. B., Connor, E. A., & Dasgupta, N. (2024). An identity-based learning community intervention enhances the lived experience and success of first-generation college students in the biological sciences. Scientific Reports, 14(1), 10163. https://doi.org/10.1038/s41598-024-60650-1

Topics

  • belonging
  • RDEISE
  • equity
  • racism
  • inclusion
  • diversity
  • inclusive education
  • STEM education
  • professional development
  • STEM identity