Board 114: Undergraduate Engineering Retention and Enrichment through Implementation of an NSF IUSE Project in an Underrepresented Hispanic-serving Institution

... In fact, one of the most contributing factors to STEM attrition is the lack of mathematical and analytical skills [3]. Leveling courses and/or math review sessions can help students acquire these vital skills, advance their knowledge, and positively contribute to their academic performance and success [23]- [26]. 4. Early warning systems to identify potential switch-outs or dropouts -Most dropouts in STEM programs, as well as switching to non-STEM majors occurs in the initial years of the academic program. ...

... 6. Peer tutoring and/or mentoring programs -Curriculum difficulty is a key contributor to STEM students' career change and dropout [8], [9]. Peer tutoring and/or mentoring programs, where advanced or higher-grade level students help lower-grade level students with their courses and assignments, can contribute to students' performance and success by (a) helping them understand their courses better [20], [21], [23], [26], [27], [31], [32]; (b) advising them in choosing their courses in an optimal combination to enhance academic performance [20], [21]; (c) teaching them how to improve their study habits as well as other valuable academic skills; (d) building a support system where mentors positively encourage and inspire mentees [33]- [36]; and (e) developing connections and friendships, which further contributes not only to students' academic success, but also enhances their sense of belonging, overall well-being, and helps create a better academic environment for them. 7. Creation of more hands-on project activities -Students' enrollment in academic institutions is greatly influenced by the availability of infrastructure and laboratory facilities. ...