ERIC Number: EJ1458376
Record Type: Journal
Publication Date: 2024
Pages: 8
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: N/A
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: EISSN-1940-9923
Scholar Perspectives on the Impact of a Scientific Community Program for Neurodivergent Undergraduate STEM Scholars
Dylan Sullivan; Fernando Zavala; Derek Hidalgo; Jacob Stolle; Rebecca Matte; Christin Monroe
Journal of Science Education for Students with Disabilities, v27 n1 Article 2 2024
Despite the adaptive strengths and unique problem-solving skills demonstrated by neurodivergent (ND) individuals, they remain marginalized 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 scholars 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 scholars, 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. This paper contains suggestions for program design for neurodivergent STEM scholars from the scholars' perspectives.
Descriptors: STEM Education, Students with Disabilities, Undergraduate Students, Student Development, Mentors, Career Counseling, At Risk Students, Autism Spectrum Disorders, Attention Deficit Hyperactivity Disorder, Learning Disabilities, Program Effectiveness, Intervention, Self Concept, Internship Programs, Barriers, Executive Function, Grants, Scholarships, Student Financial Aid
RIT Scholar Works. The Wallace Library A-500, 90 Lomb Memorial Drive, Rochester, NY 14623. Tel: 585-475-7934; e-mail: ritscholarworks@rit.edu; Web site: http://scholarworks.rit.edu/jsesd
Publication Type: Journal Articles; Reports - Research
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
Sponsor: National Science Foundation (NSF)
Authoring Institution: N/A
Grant or Contract Numbers: 2129912