Lost for Words! Defining the Language Around Role Models in Engineering Education

Abstract

This full research paper contains a vocabulary to describe role modeling in engineering education. The term role model is widely used in the literature, particularly in broadening participation. However, it is loosely defined. Both its everyday and academic use varies. This was also observed during our interviews with teachers in the discipline: there was no consensus on what a role model is nor on the meaning of adjectives used to describe a role model. Considering the benefits of role models and the need for terminology that supports a common understanding of role modeling, we have developed a vocabulary around this phenomenon. We aim to support educators by providing them with a means to reflect on different dimensions of role modeling. We define what a role model in engineering is, and what they may model: an aspect (a competency, a character attribute or an attitude) or an achievement. Main actors and types of awareness and intention of the modeling are covered, as well as how the modeling may be perceived by others. We indicate differences and overlaps with terms such as mentor. Finally, we discuss challenges due to subjectiveness: who defines the norm for what an ideal professional in engineering is?

18. Women’s Experience of Role Models in IT: Landmark women, substitutes and supporters

“…Thus, finding supporters is the third response to a lack of female role models. The supporters differ from the "substitute role models" as they do not entirely fit the definition of role models as someone who "embody [something] that can be imitated by others" (Grande, 2018). It is not so much their simple existence (as examples) that triggers the role as "supporter", but rather that they have knowledge or a position that help the women.…”

“…Morgenroth et al further adds to our understanding by defining the role model's function as "a way of motivating individuals to perform novel behaviours and inspire them to set ambitious goals", in particular for "members of underrepresented and stigmatized groups" (2015, p. 1). Aiming to be even more specific on "what a role model may embody that can be imitated by others", Grande (2018) divides between external achievements, like a degree or position, and more inherent aspects of the individual as features that can be imitated. None of the definitions mentioned above emphasise the role model or the role aspirant's gender.…”

Making Visible and Modeling the Underrepresented

“…We use and further develop an existing framework on role modeling in computing [6]. Aiming to bring aspects outside of computing norms to the foreground, we relate our findings to existing research on computing and science identities.…”

“…While role models are often mentioned in initiatives to broaden participation, there is little in-depth research on how role modeling works. One reason for this lack of research is that the term role model is loosely defined [5] and is sometimes used interchangeably with terms such as mentor or hero [6]. In our work we build upon Grande's framework [6].…”

“…One reason for this lack of research is that the term role model is loosely defined [5] and is sometimes used interchangeably with terms such as mentor or hero [6]. In our work we build upon Grande's framework [6].…”