Student Motivation in STEM Careers at Three Northwest Universities of Mexico
- 1 Autonomous University of Baja California, Mexicali, México
- 2 Autonomous University of Baja California, Mexicali, México
- 3 Autonomous University of Baja California, Mexicali, México
- 4 Polytechnic University of Baja California, Mexicali, México
- 5 Autonomous University of Baja California, Mexicali, México
- 6 Autonomous University of Baja California, Mexicali, México
Abstract
Mexico hosts a large number of modern firms, notably in the sectors of aerospace, automobiles, foods and beverages, which employ high-skilled and well-educated workers. Therefore, Graduates from Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields are both in high demand in the labor market and among the most highly paid. Even though, 30.9% of Mexican employers report having faced difficulties finding people with the necessary skills to fill vacancies in STEM areas. Three universities in the northwest region of Mexico conformed a STEM network aiming to promote enrollment, retention and gender equality on STEM careers. An instrument based on Questionnaire ROSE-Q or “Relevance of Science Education” allowed gathering information that allows measuring relevant indicators to support the design of actions and strategies. The project was carried out with funds granted in 2016 from the National Council on Science and Technology (CONACYT). The main indicators impacting the STEM career choice of students are about cultural training, youth identity, and gender equity.
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