Technological advancements have profoundly transformed business operations and decision-making processes. They underscore the pivotal role of technology in gaining a competitive edge, a critical competency for future business leaders. However, college students in business disciplines, particularly underserved populations, commonly exhibit a lack…

This dissertation consists of three studies exploring factors affecting whether, when and how students engage in sense making in science disciplines, and the epistemological components of instruction that impact their engagement. Each study is grounded in science education reform efforts, including the Next Generation Science Standards (NGSS),…

To combat educational and health disparities, out-of-school-time (OST) STEM enrichment programs provide services to underserved youth to encourage them to pursue college and health careers. This article describes a study conducted to determine if the Health Sciences and Technology Academy (HSTA) program participants who receive year-round…