Transforming the STEM Learning Experience: Minority Students' Agency in Shaping Their Own Interdisciplinary Undergraduate Research

Abstract

This study explores how African American STEM students pursued research experiences outside of STEM disciplines, drawing on nine years of data from the undergraduate research journal XULAneXUS at the STEMfocused, historically black institution Xavier University of Louisiana. Findings indicate that a successful STEM education for black students benefits from non-STEM research mentorship that supports and reinforces minority students' commitment to STEM careers. Data show that STEM students engaged in non-STEM research to help them study and explain phenomena, revealing significance in the agency of STEM students to broaden the scope of their STEM education at a STEM-focused institution.