Work

Improving Retention and Success of African American Students in Computer Science: A Mixed-Method Case Study at an HBCU

Year: 2024

Type: article

Abstract: This case study introduces the STARS (Supporting Talented African American Undergraduates for Retention and Success) project, designed to foster the retention and success of academically talented African American computer science students from low-income backgrounds at Historically Black Colleges and Universities (HBCUs) in the U.S. The STARS program employs a holistic approach, integrating four primary pillars of support: academic, social, career, and financial. Specific support provided includes near-peer mentoring, technical skill development seminars, undergraduate research, and high school outreach activities. To explore the program’s effectiveness and areas of improvement, a mixed-method evaluation study was conducted, collecting data through surveys, observations, individual interviews, and focus group interviews. The findings revealed that the STARS program contributed to high levels of retention among its scholars, and the mentoring program provided valuable networking opportunities. The study suggests that the program’s comprehensive approach, tailored to scholars’ needs, and combined with a culturally affirming learning environment, facilitates the retention and success of talented African American students in computer science.

Source: Trends in Higher Education

DOI: 10.3390/higheredu3040053

Authors: Jung Won Hur, Cassandra Thomas, Li Huang, Xiao Chang

Institutions: Auburn University, Tuskegee University

Language: English

Topic: Career Development and Diversity

Subfield: Safety Research

Field: Social Sciences

Domain: Social Sciences

SDGs: Quality education, Reduced inequalities

Open Access status: gold

Estimated APC paid: $1,137