What Does Science Mean to You? Perceptions of Science from Underrepresented Groups

Amy Ni (M.A. student), Michael A. Cacciatore, Sara K. Yeo and Isabelle Freiling, “What Does Science Mean to You? Perceptions of Science from Underrepresented Groups,” paper to be presented at the 75th annual International Communication Association (ICA) conference in Denver, CO.

Abstract: Stereotypical beliefs can impact people's perceptions of oneself and their place in society. In STEM, science-related stereotypes could potentially shape how underrepresented groups (URGs) perceive science, themselves, and their sense of belonging in STEM fields. The present study adapts the stereotypes, motivations and outcomes model (STEMO) to investigate how women, Black audiences, and Hispanic audiences define and feel about science. The qualitative focus group data suggests much overlap in the views of these three groups and provides insights into some of the ways science communicators might engage such audiences with science, as well as what factors might be driving these same audiences away from careers in science.Karin Assmann and J. Rick, "Local Media Deserts