Middle School Students Popular Career Choices in integrated STEM Learning Environments

Middle school tends to be a critical learning time in students where their work habits, confidence, and their initial perceptions of potential careers are shaped and molded. Therefore, the importance of career exploration during middle school cannot be overstated, as it plays a pivotal role in shaping the educational and career trajectories of students. To this end, this study was guided by the following research question, “What are the most  frequently pursued career choices selected by middle school students in integrated STEM learning environments?” The study adopted a descriptive survey research design (Fowler, 1993). 300 middle school students from eight schools in a mid-west state were invited to participate in the study to ensure a comprehensive representation of the student demographic in the region. Data was collected using the Student Attitudes towards STEM (S-STEM) Survey. Study findings are presented to mirror students' attitudes towards core STEM contents (math and science), followed by their perspectives on Engineering and Technology, their proficiency in 21st-century skills, and culminating in their future career choices.