Date of Award
1-1-2025
Document Type
Dissertation
Degree Name
Ed.D. in Education
First Advisor
Whitney T. Webb
Second Advisor
George S. McClellan
Third Advisor
Phillis George
School
University of Mississippi
Relational Format
dissertation/thesis
Abstract
Despite national efforts to increase female participation in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM), women remain significantly underrepresented in collegiate STEM programs. This pilot study sought to identify pre-collegiate factors that influence female students’ decisions to enroll and persist in STEM collegiate programs at the University of Mississippi, a predominantly white R1 research institution using qualitative methods. Grounded in Bandura’s Social Learning Theory, the research examined the environmental, behavioral, and personal determinants that shape academic pathways for women in STEM.
Data were collected through semi-structured interviews with six sophomore female STEM majors. Thematic analysis revealed that early exposure to structured STEM curricula (e.g., Project Lead the Way, International Baccalaureate), participation in STEM-related extracurricular activities, and mentorship from female role models were critical in shaping participants’ confidence and academic identity. Personal motivation, familial support, and a strong sense of self-efficacy were also instrumental in their decision-making and persistence.
The findings underscore the importance of early and sustained engagement, identity affirmation, and relational support in fostering female persistence in STEM. Implications for future research include the need for culturally responsive pedagogy, expanded access to hands-on STEM learning, and intentional mentorship opportunities. The study contributes to ongoing efforts to address gender equity in STEM and offers actionable strategies for educators, policymakers, and institutions seeking to build more inclusive and supportive STEM pathways for women.
Recommended Citation
Adams, Geanell C., "Voltage-Dependent Anion-Selective Channels 1 and 2 Wild Type and Mutant BH3-Like Domain Peptides: Analysis of Secondary Structure and Binding Stoichiometry to Recombinant Bax" (2025). Electronic Theses and Dissertations. 3221.
https://egrove.olemiss.edu/etd/3221