RESEARCH INTERESTS

I investigate academic motivation and performance as a function of being negatively stereotyped. Stereotypes, like other chronic stressors, are likely to have both immediate and long-term effects. My experimental research examines the acute effects of stereotypes on women's math and spatial performance. Results suggest that situational variables determine whether salient stereotypes increase or decrease short-term motivation and performance. I am also concerned with the long-term academic consequences of being negatively stereotyped.

My dissertation examines the influence of small group workshops on the motivation of minority and non-minority college biology students. Demographically diverse groups of 5-7 members meet weekly to explore advanced conceptual material related to biology. Participation is intended to insulate minority students from common problems, including academic isolation and the expectation that academic struggles will be attributed to their race. In addition, groups provide models for perseverance in the face of difficulty. All participants are expected to have higher grades and lower attrition than controls. Preliminary results indicate that minority participants earned grades one standard deviation higher than minority controls. This research is important because it explores alternative explanations for stereotypic underperformance by highlighting the motivational and cognitive consequences that accompany being stereotyped, and tests methods for ameliorating negative effects.

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