A recent NSF report showed that for decade from 2011 to 2020, STEM degree production among Black or African American students were the same or reduced as a percentage of total degrees awarded for four of five STEM related fields.  Arguably, the successes often cited at the program level have not translated to broader impacts in engagement outcomes. In addition, while many programs have done well in providing technical training, they might not have realized their fullest potential in other areas critical to success, as their design remain uninformed by relevant research, often conducted in the social and behavioral sciences.

This introductory workshop is a preview of the three-day Understanding Interventions Dissemination Workshop on the application of strength based theoretical frames in STEM related training. Participants will gain an appreciation of the impact of these frames in informing program design, assessment, and dissemination. Participants will be encouraged to continue engagement through future 2-3 day workshops organized by Understanding Interventions that Broaden Participation in Science and the Louis Stokes Regional Center of Excellence for the Study of STEM Interventions.

Audience outcomes:  After participation in this workshop, participants will be more informed about asset-based approaches and how to incorporate these approaches into their training program design, and more informed about Understanding Interventions and its many resources as tools for continued education, hands-on training, networking, and dissemination.