Girls’ Persist is an evidence-based STEM leadership program designed to put problems into practice while fostering an environment for girls to thrive. The program consists of hands-on learning applications and leadership methods viable for shaping self-efficacy and increasing capacity for science, technology, engineering, and mathematics. The program utilizes the learn-it, lead-it, and perform-it educational model to assist adolescent girls with self-confidence, critical thinking skills, and decision-making while influencing overall STEM persistence.

In each workshop, the girls negotiate problem-solving tasks i.e., hands-on and mathematical applications necessary to analyze and develop soluble courses of action. The program includes a periodic 360-degree evaluation by parents, students, and school administration, arming us and our community with measurable data to fulfill our commitment to serving the next generation of women leaders!

Girls’ Self-efficacy and STEM Persistence Model  Stewart, C.A. (2019)

Exchange of Messages

The first construct in the conceptual framework represents the fundamental exchange among school, family, and environment. It visually represents the introduction to awareness and the significant importance of how each influence and/or cause changes when it encounters other variables throughout preparatory development. The literature describes self-efficacy as a belief in one’s own ability. In the closer examination of self-efficacy among girls, Grossman and Porsche (2013) concluded that surrounding social systems (i.e., family, teachers, peers, and school) communicate messages that shape science engagement.

Process of Self-Discovery

The second construct visually represents how each element (i.e., self-belief, ability, and mentality) forms a connection of influence through the exploration of self-discovery. The variables illustrate her developmental awareness of how self-belief can influence her overall perception of her abilities, therefore visually explaining how each variable impacts the other throughout preparatory development. Self-discovery throughout adolescence is vital for development. The implications of this shaping and/or connecting of self-efficacy influence the mindset of a girl when she faces challenges.

Process of Self-Actualization

The third construct represents self-efficacy and its influence on persistence among women in STEM; namely, this construct reflects a woman’s belief in her own ability despite the varied challenges she may endure. It visually demonstrates the transition from recognizing her abilities to acknowledging how self-belief attribute to self-confidence.