Creating STEM Pathways: Implementation and Outcomes of a High School Research Internship Program

Background: Research internships for high school students are designed to provide authentic, hands-on learning experiences to prepare students for STEM careers. However, few programs explored students’ learning experiences, confidence, and engagement with interdisciplinary applied STEM research. Purpose: This paper explores the impact of SPARKS, Summer Program for Applied Research and Knowledge Sharing, which was created for high school students to develop their understanding of innovative, interdisciplinary STEM research. Methodology: The program was designed to engage students in cutting-edge research activities in collaborative, constructive contexts where students explore real-world problems, develop solutions, and present research findings. The study used a mixed-methods approach using quantitative and qualitative surveys to understand how the students’ research confidence, identity, and STEM self-efficacy changed, along with mentorship and research experiences during the program. Findings: Pre-and post-surveys from two cohorts of 28 students showed significant improvement in students’ confidence in completing research tasks like creating a poster and writing a research report. Students reported their mentorship experiences as valuable and shared that the internship expanded their knowledge and interest in STEM fields. Implications: The study presents STEM career pathways in K-12 contexts through interdisciplinary research, collaborative learning, and mentorship.