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Despite the adaptive strengths and unique problem-solving skills demonstrated by neurodivergent (ND) individuals, they remain underrepresented in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) fields. High unemployment rates among individuals with disabilities emphasize the need for addressing barriers to entry and persistence in the workforce. This study introduces a program designed to enhance opportunities for neurodivergent STEM scholars with financial needs, supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF). The program involves: 1) a weekly cohort course to engage in professional development, 2) use of the Birkman Method® survey to help scholars identify and communicate strengths, fostering self-awareness and growth, and 3) one-on-one mentoring with STEM faculty and career counselors to assist students in identifying and pursuing internship opportunities and developing career paths. This paper, co-written by cohort scholars, highlights the program’s successes, to date, in facilitating internships for neurodivergent students, addressing challenges associated with executive function, and providing ongoing support through cohort activities and mentorship. Overall, the program seeks to bridge the gap between neurodivergent scholars and STEM opportunities.
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Fostering STEM Identity: Community Support & Peer Mentoring for Neurodivergent Students
Despite interest and potential in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics), neurodivergent (ND) individuals face underrepresentation and marginalization. These individuals experience low rates of degree completion and even higher dropout rates from STEM programs. In the workplace, elevated levels of unemployment among individuals with disabilities underscore the need to address obstacles to persistence in STEM programs and pathways to the workforce. The AIE-STEMPLOS (Access to Innovative Education in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics-Providing Learning Opportunities and Scholarship) program at Landmark College, launched in 2021, aims to empower ND STEM scholars by leveraging effective mentoring strategies to support degree completion and career development in STEM fields. Supported by the National Science Foundation (NSF) through scholarship funding (S-STEM), the program's primary goals are to support domestic low-income, academically talented ND scholars in Computer Science and Life Science, create a robust culture of mentorship within the STEM department, and strengthen scholarly professional development. We generally refer to students as scholars in this program as that is the language preferred by the NSF. The mentoring component is designed to enhance psychosocial and professional development through faculty, group, and peer mentoring. Employing tools like the Birkman Method, mentor maps and Individual Development Plans (IDP), the program fosters self-understanding and community among scholars. Evaluation methods include qualitative and quantitative assessments, with data showing high satisfaction with mentor-mentee relationships, robust engagement in professional development activities, and significant improvements in scholars' professional outlook and STEM identity. This comprehensive approach integrates faculty mentors, career counselors, and weekly cohort meetings for mentoring and professional development activities. This paper will highlight the faculty and group/ peer mentoring components of the program, demonstrating how inclusive educational strategies can promote diversity within STEM fields.
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- Award ID(s):
- 2129912
- PAR ID:
- 10610664
- Publisher / Repository:
- The Chronicle of Mentoring and Coaching
- Date Published:
- Format(s):
- Medium: X
- Sponsoring Org:
- National Science Foundation
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