Disruptions To The “Modeled Minority” In Engineering: Why Do Some Asian American Students Leave Engineering?

Authors

Michelle Choi AUSMAN, Virginia Tech, United States of AmericaFollow
Qin ZHU, Virginia Tech, United States of AmericaFollow

Document Type

Conference Paper

Abstract

Asian American students are the largest non-White racial group in US undergraduate engineering, but they are often labeled as the "model minority." This stereotype confines them to STEM majors, limiting their access to diversity, equity, and inclusion (DEI) programs. Little attention has been given to why some Asian American students leave engineering. To address this gap, a pilot study using semi-structured interviews aims to explore the reasons behind their decision to leave the field or change their major. The study seeks to contribute to engineering education scholarship by promoting more inclusive learning environments for Asian American students and providing recommendations for better support from faculty, administrators, and staff.

DOI

https://doi.org/10.21427/WQC0-6312

Recommended Citation

Ausman, M. C., & Zhu, Q. (2023). Disruptions To The "Modeled Minority" In Engineering: Why do Some Asian American Students Leave Engineering? European Society for Engineering Education (SEFI). DOI: 10.21427/WQC0-6312

Creative Commons License

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