High school extracurricular activities and camps related to engineering, math and science: Do they help retention and performance in engineering? (Fundamental)

Abstract

After the call to increase the number of engineers graduating from college, many K-12 schools, organizations, colleges, businesses and individuals began programs designed to increase interest in fields related to science, technology, engineering and math (STEM). This study used survey data from two cohorts at a large metropolitan research institution to investigate whether students who participated in STEM related camps or extracurricular activities performed better in engineering school and if they were more likely to be retained in engineering. The data showed participation in a summer STEM camp increased the likelihood of being retained for one year, but did not increase the probability of retention in later years. The results of analysis on participation in camps and extracurricular activities and performance were mixed. There was no significant difference in GPA for those who did and did not attend a STEM camp. Students who participated in math or science related extracurricular activities did have a statistically higher first and seventh semester GPA compared to students who did not participate in these types of activities. There was no significant difference in first or seventh semester GPA for students who did or did not participate in extracurricular activities related to engineering or computer science.