Brittany B.’s Post

When I was asked to speak for the WGSS on Wednesdays seminar series back in the spring, I said sure! But, I’m a senior lecturer and don’t do research as a part of my official position at ETSU. 🤣 Therefore, when I was looking for a topic to speak on I came across “Science Identity”. Such an important area of research glad I got the opportunity to speak out it today. I’m definitely a “science person” but how did I get here? https://lnkd.in/eRMe33ZA The Importance of Science Identity for Inclusion by Marie A. Bernard The concept of science identity and how individuals strive to become valued members of the science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM) disciplines is an emerging area of research [7]. A person who has a strong science identity is more likely to pursue a career in science [8-10]. Conversely, as you might guess, the lack of a science identity may have the opposite effect. The paucity of individuals from underrepresented groups (URGs) in science can have a deleterious effect on the science identity of URGs. Studies have demonstrated that individuals who observe and interact with career role models who have a similar background have greater persistence in their STEM career [11]. This lack of representation can serve as a de facto barrier to retention and persistence in STEM careers [12-14] by not providing early-career URGs crucial opportunities for role models or mentorships that may enhance their science identities.