2024 Collaborative Network for Engineering & Computing Diversity (CoNECD)

Keywords: undergraduate, graduate, race/ethnicity

Our study explores the siloed nature of programs aimed at improving equity in STEM fields at three universities in the Pacific Northwest and investigates the factors that either facilitate or inhibit collaboration among these efforts. The study utilizes a mixed methods approach, combining surveys, social network analysis, and qualitative interviews to gain a comprehensive understanding of collaboration across initiatives with a shared goal of promoting equity in STEM.

A survey was administered to respondents representing various programs and organizations at the universities. The results indicated that while there is a high level of collaboration among equity efforts serving the general student population, these initiatives remain largely isolated from those specifically focused on equity in STEM. The research also identified key factors that facilitate effective collaboration, including open and frequent communication, shared goals, and strong relationships. Conversely, barriers to collaboration were found to include high staff turnover, limited time and resources, grant requirements, and the vertical organizational structure of institutions.

By mapping the network of STEM equity efforts at the universities and incorporating practitioners’ reflections on collaboration, this study emphasizes the need for increased communication and information exchange across equity, diversity, and inclusion (EDI) initiatives. The findings highlight a critical gap between efforts targeting general student equity and those specifically addressing STEM equity, indicating the necessity for bridging these silos to achieve meaningful systemic change.

However, certain questions remain unanswered, such as the underlying mechanisms driving the siloing of STEM EDI efforts and the extent to which the lack of collaboration hinders progress. Further research is warranted to investigate these aspects and develop strategies to overcome barriers, foster collaboration, and promote holistic approaches to equity in STEM fields.

Overall, this study sheds light on the challenges faced by practitioners involved in improving equity and underscores the importance of coordinated and collaborative efforts across diverse stakeholders to create a more inclusive and equitable STEM education environment. The findings from this research have the potential to inform policy and practice in other institutions striving to enhance equity in STEM fields and drive systemic change in the pursuit of diversity and inclusion.