A pilot study on our non-traditional, varied writing accountability group for historically excluded and underrepresented persons in STEMM

• DOI: 10.1016/j.heliyon.2023.e22335
• Publication Date: 2023-11-22T13:53:45Z
• Authors: Kit Neikirk; Taylor Barongan; Bryanna Shao; Elsie C. Spencer; Kinutha Kabugi; Zachary Conley; Larry Vang; Mein Vue; Nancy Vang; Edgar Garza-Lopez; Amber Crabtree; Stefanie Alexander; Heather K. Beasley; Andrea G. Marshall; Mason Killion; Dominique Stephens; Beverly Owens; Denise Martinez; Caroline B. Palav...; Felysha Jenkins; Chia Vang; Derrick J. Morton; Haysetta Shuler; Sandra A. Murray; Steven Damo; Zer Vue; Antentor Hinton Jr
• Keywords: Underrepresented Minority; Attendance; Mentorship

Underrepresented faculty have higher burnout rates and lower grant attainment when compared with their non-minority counterparts. Many in science, technology, engineering, mathematics, medicine (STEMM) disciplines, including underrepresented individuals, often difficulty dedicating time to the writing process, trainees being relegated laboratory tasks training years, resulting a lack of practice academic writing. Notably, past studies shown that individuals are than majority Here, we sought consider mechanism targeted although applicable everyone, help overcome traditional barriers STEMM. The authors hosted accountability group (WAG) uniquely provides format focused on physical activity different forms strengthen both career development award/funding attainment. Our objectives were evaluate this unique format, thus creating resource for institutions learn about WAGs expand upon framework formulate own WAG. To do this, performed small pilot study (n = 21) investigate attitudes towards We present results survey conducted among WAG participants, which spanned stages was highly diverse demographically. show following attendance our WAG, did not note significant change scales pertaining John Henryism (high-effort coping), resilience, sense belonging, or grit. However, increases noted self-perceived ability handle stress, confidence applying awards, appreciation mentoring, satisfaction WAGs. Taken together, suggest can some positive as opportunity may be able support attaining funding at education institutions.