– All three factors, math achievement, perceived math ability, and parental occupation in a science field, are found to be significant predictors of the probability of majoring in science in college.
– Having a parent working in a science related field is associated with a better performance in math but not necessarily higher levels of perceived math ability, given math performance.
– Most of the observed positive effects of having a parent in a science related occupation seem to be concentrated among females.
– Estimated effects of higher levels of math achievement are about double for boys than for girls. Estimates of perceived math ability are also slightly larger for boys.
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Gender Gaps in Math Performance, Perceived Mathematical Ability and College STEM Education: The Role of Parental Occupation
The Earnings Benefits of Majoring in STEM Fields Among High Achieving Minority Students
The purpose of this study is to examine the relationship between majoring in a STEM ?eld in college, and early career earnings among high achieving minority students. Research questions: 1) What are the earnings premiums associated with majoring in STEM fields during college for racial/ethnic minority students? 2) To what extent does congruence between majors and jobs account for the earnings differences? 3) Is there an earnings premium associated with majoring and gaining employment in a STEM field and not gaining employment in a related occupation?