How role models can diversify college students in STEM: A social-cognitive perspective

ABSTRACT

Bandura’s research on observational learning laid the foundation of role model research. Contemporary research shows role models support women and racial/ethnic minority students in STEM by buffering them from the deleterious effects of stereotype threats and boosting their self-efficacy. However, certain characteristics can make role models more or less influential. Thus, it is important to understand when and how role models influence minoritized students’ motivation in STEM. In this article, we (a) review Bandura’s theory of observational learning and its links to role modeling, (b) discuss the characteristics and mechanism of role models, and (c) make 3 recommendations for promoting the effectiveness of role models as an important way to diversify STEM.

Disclosure statement

No potential conflict of interest was reported by the author(s).

Correction Statement

This article has been corrected with minor changes. These changes do not impact the academic content of the article.

Additional Resources

1. 500 Women Scientists Wikipedia Edit-a-Thons. Retrieved February 13, 2023 from https://500womenscientists.org/wikipedia-editathon.

This website contains a wealth of information about women scientists who can serve as role models for female undergraduate students interested in STEM majors. Also, this organization provides a myriad of opportunities to join in local communities of women or gender minority scientists who are dedicated to fostering an inclusive scientific community.

2. National Summit for Educational Equity. Retrieved February 13, 2023 from https://napequity.org/resources/role-models/.

This webpage provides educators with multiple tools, resources, and channels that can be used to create mentoring programs or connect with STEM role models. This resource can also be used to provide minoritized undergraduate students with opportunities to find or become STEM role models.

3. The “I Am a Scientist!” Initiative. February 13, 2023 from https://www.iamascientist.info/.

This website provides a number of visual organizers, accessible multimedia toolkits, including downloadable slides and posters, that humanize and increase the representation of diverse STEM role models. The tools and resources can help educators visualize diverse research topics, pathways to scientific careers, and the stories of STEM role models.