Date

8-9-2024

Department

School of Education

Degree

Doctor of Philosophy in Education (PhD)

Chair

Mary Strickland

Keywords

Asian American, non-STEM, culture, environment, social media, motivation, passion, interest

Disciplines

Education

Abstract

The purpose of this transcendental phenomenological study was to discover the lived experiences of choosing a non-STEM college major for Asian American students in the United States. The theory guiding this study was Bandura’s social cognitive theory, as it provided a foundation for understanding how cultural and environmental factors interact with internal motivations and interests to shape college and career choices. The study addressed the central research question: What are the lived experiences of Asian American students who have chosen non-STEM college majors? This phenomenological study used purposeful criterion sampling to select 12 Asian American participants who are pursuing a non-STEM college major or have graduated with a non-STEM degree within the past five years. The data collection methods were individual interviews, letter writing, and focus groups. The data analysis followed the steps described by Moustakas in the modification of van Kaam’s data analysis method. The findings revealed a complex interplay of Asian collectivistic cultures, familial expectations, institutional influences, social media, and personal motivation in shaping educational and career choices in non-STEM fields. Internal motivation is the key theme that highlights the participants' passions and interests. The participants have navigated through various cultural differences, language barriers, pressures and stereotypes to pursue their passions in non-STEM fields that align with their interests and values.

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