Predictors of Latina/o Community College Student Vocational Choice in STEM

Abstract

ABSTRACTThis study confirmed appropriate measurement model fit for a theoretical model, the STEM (science, technology, engineering, and mathematics) vocational choice (STEM-VC) model. This model identified factors that successfully predicted a student’s vocational choice decision to pursue a STEM degree for Latina/o and White community college students. The STEM-VC model is an adaptation of the theoretical framework of Social Cognitive Career Theory. The following factors are included for examination: Self-Efficacy, Vocational Interests, Social Capital, Academic Achievement, Transfer Capital, and Student Validation. Unique findings of this study include the identification of a predictive STEM vocational choice model for Latino/Latina and White students. Emergent constructs predictive of STEM vocational choice for both populations included student Self-Efficacy, Transfer Capital, and Student Validation; these were consistent between both student groups. Results of the study serve to inform community college practitioners of key programmatic emphasis areas to potentially influence STEM vocational choice prior to student transfer.