An investigation of the linkage between technology-based activities and STEM major selection in 4-year postsecondary institutions in the United States: multilevel structural equation modelling |
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| Authors: | Ahlam Lee |
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| Institution: | 1. Department of Educational Leadership and Human Resource Development, College of Social Sciences, Health, and Education, Xavier University, Cincinnati, OH, USAleea15@xavier.edu |
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| Abstract: | Among the disciplines of science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM), much attention has been paid to the influences of math- and science-related learning contexts on students’ STEM major selection. However, the technology and engineering learning contexts that are linked to STEM major selection have been overlooked. In response, a nationally representative sample of young adults in the US was used to investigate the relationship between technology-based activities and students’ STEM major choices in 4-year postsecondary institutions. Multilevel structural equation modelling (ML-SEM) revealed that the frequent use of video or computer games was related strongly to students’ STEM major selections in 4-year postsecondary institutions, after taking into account demographic characteristics and math achievement scores. The results provide evidence that promoting technology-rich learning environments is a significant factor in motivating students to pursue STEM careers. |
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| Keywords: | STEM major selection video games computers technology postsecondary institutions |
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