Year 2 Summary of NSF Project: Work-focused Experiential Learning to Increase STEM Student Retention and Graduation at Two-year Hispanic-serving Institutions

Project Overview

This NSF-supported initiative at Phoenix College aims to enhance STEM student retention and graduation rates by providing work-focused experiential learning opportunities, with a particular emphasis on Hispanic students. The project focuses on building cross-sector partnerships, engaging students in Computer Information Systems (CIS) and STEM work experiences, and expanding successful practices to other institutions.

Key Goals and Activities:

1. Establish Cross-sector Partnerships:

   • Developed a diverse team of faculty and staff trained in STEM Evidence-based Student-Serving (STEM-ESS) assessment.

   • Hosted the Future of Work Summit, engaging nearly 250 participants to discuss industry needs and foster collaborations.

   • Formed an IT Advisory Council with South Mountain and Gateway Community Colleges.

2. Engage Students in Work-focused Learning:

   • Created processes for student internships and externships, resulting in two initial internship opportunities within Phoenix College's IT group.

   • Hired a Work-based Experiences Coordinator to manage internships and externships and developed a Career Development Trajectory Checklist.

3. Expand STEM-ESS to Other Departments:

   • Planned to extend STEM-ESS practices to the Physical, Life, and Social Sciences departments at Phoenix College.

   • Documented best practices to be shared with other two-year Hispanic-serving institutions (HSIs).

4. Increase HSI Implementation of Evidence-based Practices:

   • Collected and analyzed data to support the intentional service of Latinx students, aiming to improve their success in STEM fields.

Major Accomplishments:

• Internships and Externships:

  • Provided students with hands-on experience and mentorship.

  • Captured student experiences through surveys and interviews.

  • Students reported positive impacts, including exposure to new technical skills, improved communication abilities, and increased interest in STEM careers.

• Faculty and Staff Professional Development:

  • Conducted workshops and externships focused on equity-minded teaching, cybersecurity, and inclusive practices.

  • Developed strategies for faculty to support student diversity and inclusion in STEM.

• Community and Industry Engagement:

  • Hosted events to showcase the IT Institute and enlist industry partners for internships and externships.

  • Collaborated with multiple organizations to support work-based learning.

• Addressing Equity and Inclusion Challenges:

  • Identified challenges in recruiting, onboarding, and supporting diverse students.

  • Developed a draft playbook to guide equity and inclusion efforts.

Plans for the Next Reporting Period:

1. Expand internships and externships at Phoenix College and partner institutions.

2. Conduct assessments and planning at additional colleges.

3. Integrate project learnings and best practices into broader STEM initiatives.

4. Continue professional development for faculty focused on serving Hispanic students.

Impact:

• Principal Discipline Development:

  • Established connections with industry partners to provide work-based experiences for students.

  • Created a comprehensive CIT Industry Advisory Board for curriculum development.

• Human Resources Development:

  • Implemented strategies to actively recruit diverse students and foster a growth mindset in the CIT department.

  • Enhanced inclusive pedagogy practices across the department.

• Teaching and Educational Experiences:

  • Expanded bandwidth and initiated new certificate programs at the IT Institute.

  • Developed new remote education and work-based learning resources.

• Institutional and Information Resources:

  • Enhanced career development services and industry relationships.

  • Implemented Pipeline AZ to connect students with job opportunities and measure outcomes.

Challenges:

• Addressed COVID-19 related disruptions by transitioning to virtual learning and work experiences.

This project is driving significant progress in enhancing STEM education and career readiness for Hispanic students and other underrepresented groups through innovative work-based learning opportunities and strong industry partnerships.