Speaker :            Dr. Dalton D. Marsh, University of New Hampshire

Date:                   January 21, 2020 (Tuesday)

Time:                  4:00 pm – 5:00 pm

Room:                 NS 212C

Title:  Why Do Students Choose Majors in STEM? 

Abstract:

The building of a more capable and diverse workforce in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM) is seen as a critical issue in the United States. But why do some students pursue these careers while others do not? In this talk, I will discuss how I am using statistics and nationally representative data to investigate this question. Specifically, I will show how I am applying structural equation modeling and data from the High School Longitudinal Study of 2009 to model the relationships between students’ educational experiences, attitudes towards mathematics, and college major choice. An overview of structural equation modeling will be included that highlights why this particular statistical technique is ideal for addressing the challenges associated with analyzing nationally representative survey data (e.g., categorical variables, multilevel data structure, missing data) and models with multiple populations and dependent variables. Implications for policy and practice will be discussed.