IMPROVING DIVERSITY IN STEM: THE ROLE OF PROJECT LEAD THE WAY IN INCREASING MINORITY ENROLLMENT IN STEM DISCIPLINES

摘要

Increasing STEM degree attainment for underrepresented minorities is a national priority because a more racially/ethnically diverse workforce will enhance innovation in STEM fields and benefit minority-group members. Using statewide data on Indiana high school graduates, this study examined whether completing Project Lead The Way courses in high school increased the likelihood of majoring in STEM disciplines during the first year of college. Because students completed 0, 1, 2, or 3 or more PLTW courses, the average causal effects of taking PLTW courses were assessed using a multivalued treatment effects model. Results indicated that PLTW was effective in increasing minority STEM enrollment. However, taking more than one course did not have a significant additive effect on the likelihood of majoring in STEM.