ERIC Number: ED663468
Record Type: Non-Journal
Publication Date: 2024
Pages: 86
Abstractor: As Provided
ISBN: 979-8-3427-1214-9
ISSN: N/A
EISSN: N/A
Available Date: N/A
Female Students' Sense of Belonging Influence on Engineering Technology Degree Retention: A Phenomenological Study
Edith Wittenmyer
ProQuest LLC, Ph.D. Dissertation, Indiana State University
The retention of female students in engineering technology programs is a concern for midwestern university focusing to foster diversity in engineering and technology fields. This abstract explores the influence of female students' sense of belonging on their retention in engineering technology degree programs. Drawing upon a review of literature and empirical research, this study investigates the factors that contribute to female students' sense of belonging in engineering technology disciplines and its impact on their decision to persist or depart from their academic pursuits. The abstract delves into the multidimensional nature of sense of belonging, encompassing academic, social, and cultural dimensions within the context of engineering and technology education. It examines the role of various factors such as classroom environment, faculty support, peer interactions, mentoring programs, institutional culture, and diversity initiatives in shaping female students' sense of belonging and retention outcomes. Additionally, the abstract accentuates the challenges and barriers that female students encounter in engineering technology programs, including gender stereotypes, implicit biases, isolation, and lack of representation. It emphasizes the importance of creating inclusive and supportive environments that validate female students' experiences, perspectives, and aspirations in engineering and technology fields. The findings suggest that fostering a sense of belonging among female students is crucial for enhancing retention rates and promoting diversity in engineering technology disciplines. The abstract concludes by proposing recommendations for educational institutions, policymakers, and stakeholders to implement strategies and initiatives aimed at improving the sense of belonging among female students and increasing retention in engineering technology degree programs. [The dissertation citations contained here are published with the permission of ProQuest LLC. Further reproduction is prohibited without permission. Copies of dissertations may be obtained by Telephone (800) 1-800-521-0600. Web page: http://www.proquest.com.bibliotheek.ehb.be/en-US/products/dissertations/individuals.shtml.]
Descriptors: Females, Gender Issues, Engineering Technology, Higher Education, School Holding Power, Group Unity, Barriers, Student Attitudes, College Students, Peer Relationship, Mentors, Diversity, Organizational Culture, Classroom Environment, Teacher Student Relationship
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Publication Type: Dissertations/Theses - Doctoral Dissertations
Education Level: Higher Education; Postsecondary Education
Audience: N/A
Language: English
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