A Correlational Study between Parental Awareness of STEM Education and Student’s enrolment for STEM-related subjects for Upper Secondary School Level

Authors

  • Hafsah Taha Faculty of Sciences and Mathematics, Sultan Idris Education University, Tanjong Malim, Perak, Malaysia
  • Thamilarasi Subramaniam Department of Science and Mathematics, Erudite International School, Shah Alam, Selangor, Malaysia

DOI:

https://doi.org/10.37134/jsml.vol8.2.2.2020

Keywords:

STEM education, student enrolment, parental knowledge, parental awareness

Abstract

This survey analysed parental Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) exposure in three different aspects to predict their student’s enrolment in STEM-related subjects in upper secondary level. The parental exposure towards STEM has been determined in three different aspects: parental socio-demographic information, knowledge towards STEM and their level of awareness on STEM approach. Findings revealed parents occupation has a positive correlation towards student’s enrolment for STEM related options; inferring that student’s enrolment in STEM-related subjects highly increases when the parent’s profession is related to STEM-based career. However, the study also revealed parents with low scores in STEM knowledge and awareness could also provide appropriate opportunities for their students to foster an appreciation for courses related to STEM careers. Thus, in addition to improving the opportunities for students in STEM education through courses, materials and opportunities, schools must additionally create opportunities for parents to be exposed and learn more about STEM education and how it would create high profile careers for their children.

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Published

2020-03-10

How to Cite

Taha, H., & Subramaniam, T. (2020). A Correlational Study between Parental Awareness of STEM Education and Student’s enrolment for STEM-related subjects for Upper Secondary School Level. Journal of Science and Mathematics Letters, 8(2), 8–14. https://doi.org/10.37134/jsml.vol8.2.2.2020

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