Increasing Opportunity and Inclusivity in Laboratory and Data Sciences: The High School2Health Care Project

Abstract Information:
Purpose This presentation will provide an overview of the project goals and interim evaluation results of the High School 2 Health Care (HS2HC) project focused on developing Clinical Laboratory Sciences (CLS) and Public Health Information Technology (PHIT) programs for high school students in rural and underserved areas surrounding Shelby County, TN.

Background The COVID-19 pandemic highlighted new challenges to education and healthcare that were unimaginable just a few years ago. The healthcare industry is the largest employment segment in Tennessee with jobs paying higher than average wage, therefore preparing students for these careers is of utmost importance. The goal of HS2HC is to provide students in rural West Tennessee with education targeted towards careers in laboratory and data sciences to fill healthcare vacancies state-wide, reduce unemployment rates and improve healthcare throughout the region. HS2HC

Project Description The HS2HC project is developing and implementing CLS and PHIT programs for high school (HS) students that promote hands-on engagement opportunities, foster positive social interactions, develop critical reasoning skills, and provide a springboard to those pursuing opportunities in these areas. The dual-enrollment (DE) pathway and summer program offered together with PD training for HS faculty aims to: 1) increase knowledge of the CLS and PHIT professions, 2) increase understanding and knowledge of subject matter and skills for careers in CLS and PHIT, and 3) increase the number of underrepresented students in these professions.

Evaluation The Center for Research in Educational Policy (CREP) is the independent evaluator for the HS2HC project. The mixed-methods evaluation is directly aligned to project goals, and three evaluation questions will be the focus of this presentation: 1) To what extent have students’ lab and research skills, and scientific knowledge increased after HS2HC summer camp? 2) After HS2HC summer camp, to what extent do students report being likely to enter programs and pursue a career in the targeted professions? 3) How did the provided curriculum influence high school curriculum development and awareness for laboratory and data sciences?

Sample Each year, 25 students will be recruited from the rural areas centered around Ripley, TN, where the HS2HC camps and PD will be conducted. Similarly, 25-50 HS faculty will be recruited to attend HS2HC PD annually.

Data Sources To enhance inclusivity in participation and data received, multiple types of data (e.g., surveys, focus groups, observations) will be collected from a diverse set of students and high school faculty. Student science knowledge, postsecondary plans, and career path awareness will be assessed before and after 1) summer camp, and 2) the dual-enrollment course. Similarly, multiple evaluation activities will engage HS faculty to learn more about their awareness of the programs and gather feedback on the HS2HC curriculum.

Analysis Plan and Results Descriptive and qualitative analyses of data received (e.g., knowledge, awareness, interest) will be conducted following Summer 2024 camp and PD to provide interim results and feedback to the HS2HC team for program enhancements or modifications. These results will be included in our presentation..