Apr 28, 2024
In this episode, we dive into the often-discussed but seldom
addressed divide between academics and practitioners in the
STEM (Science, Technology,
Engineering, and Mathematics) field. We welcome two esteemed
guests: Dr. Amanda Diekman, Professor of
Psychological and Brain Sciences and Associate Vice Provost for
Faculty and Academic Affairs at Indiana University, and Jayshree Seth, Chief Science Advocate
and Corporate Scientist at 3M.
Dr. Diekman acknowledges the existence of a gap between academia
and industry, suggesting that it persists partly because people
believe it does. However, she emphasizes that the divide can be
bridged through effort, communication, and setting clear
expectations. The most immediate impact of academic work is when
students apply it in their careers, indicating a strong need for
better alignment between academic research and industry
practice.
Jayshree Seth uses the metaphor of "paths not taken" to explain the
academic-practitioner divide. She points out that when people stick
to the familiar, the less-traveled routes become increasingly
invisible. To bridge the gap, individuals must step out of their
comfort zones and embrace new approaches, even if it means learning
new rules and navigating uncharted territory.
Jayshree and Amanda share a common interest in understanding why
women, who earn STEM degrees, often do not pursue careers in STEM.
Jayshree approached this issue from a social science perspective,
seeking ways to ensure persistence among women in STEM fields.
Amanda, with a background in gender roles and representation, found
stability in the gender distribution within STEM unexplained by
conventional narratives. Their collaboration aimed to identify and
address the signals that deter women and minorities from engaging
with STEM.
Jayshree's role as Chief Science Advocate at 3M emerged from the
company's efforts to understand public perception of science, which
revealed that many people believed science had little impact on
their lives. This realization motivated her to advocate for science
and connect with like-minded researchers like Amanda. Amanda's
research on gender roles and communal goals resonated with
Jayshree's experience, leading to their collaboration.
Amanda and Jayshree conducted a study to examine how goal
congruity, the alignment between personal goals and workplace or
academic values, affects students' engagement in STEM. They focused
on communal goals, recognizing that a lack of context,
collaboration, and empowerment might deter underrepresented groups.
The study sought to document the psychological benefits of nudging
students toward a purpose-driven approach in STEM, highlighting the
need to shift the culture to foster inclusion and belonging.
Jayshree identifies three critical areas where communal goals play
a role in STEM: contextualization, collaboration, and empowerment.
She shares her journey of feeling out of place in a male-dominated
lab, only to discover the importance of her work later. At 3M, she
found these communal goals embraced, contributing to a more
inclusive environment.
The PRISM (Purpose Reflection in STEM
Modalities) project is an effort to provide practical tools for
STEM faculty to create assignments that encourage students to
reflect on their purpose and engage in meaningful conversations.
This initiative, funded by 3M, aims to bridge the gap between
academia and industry, promoting STEM equity and supporting
minoritized talent pipelines.
Both Amanda and Jayshree share their visions for the future.
Jayshree hopes to see the PRISM curriculum become mandatory in STEM
classes, fostering a sense of belonging and encouraging students to
align their goals with communal values. Amanda envisions a broader
cultural shift that creates more space for diverse values and
perspectives in STEM, ultimately leading to increased retention and
success among faculty and students alike.
Join us as we explore these critical topics and uncover actionable
steps to bridge the gap between academia and industry in STEM,
ultimately creating a more inclusive and supportive environment for
all.
Three Key Takeaways:
• Bridging the Academic-Practitioner Divide:
The divide between academia and industry in STEM is real but can be
overcome with better communication, clearer expectations, and a
focus on shared goals. Both academic researchers and industry
practitioners need to explore untaken paths and learn from each
other to close this gap.
• The Role of Goal Congruity in STEM: The concept of goal congruity—alignment between personal goals and workplace or academic values—is critical in encouraging underrepresented groups to pursue and persist in STEM careers. The lack of communal goals, such as collaboration and empowerment, can create barriers for women and minorities. Addressing these gaps can increase inclusivity and belonging.
• The PRISM Project and Cultural Change: The PRISM (Purpose Reflection in STEM Modalities) project is designed to provide practical tools and templates to help STEM faculty integrate purpose-driven assignments into their curriculum. By promoting a more inclusive culture that values communal goals, the project aims to drive cultural change in STEM, ultimately leading to increased diversity, retention, and success for students and faculty alike.