Jessi L. Smith, Ph.D.
Professor of Psychology and Associate Vice Chancellor for Research
University of Colorado, Colorado Springs Summary: The metaphor of a leaky pipeline is often used to describe underrepresented minority students’ pathway through STEM education and careers. Using that analogy, interventions often look at the water leaking out of the pipe when we should examine the pipe itself. Particular attention is paid to empirical data on the multifaceted ways in which social norms can undermine women and minority students’ motivation and feelings of inclusion in the classroom and research laboratory. Norms often operate outside conscious awareness and limit broad participation in academics. Identifying and disrupting such norms can help create an inclusive learning context with far-reaching benefits. This presentation showcases innovative evidence-based strategies for changing the learning context in ways that improve student experiences in science. All are welcome to attend! |