Educational Pathways for Black Students in Science, Engineering, and Medicine

Academic preparation is critical to increase Black representation in Science, Engineering, and Medicine, but so, too, are such interrelated factors as providing mentoring and role models in sufficient numbers, adequately funding school and community support services, and analyzing the intentional and unintentional consequences of a range of policies and practices. To address these issues, the Roundtable on Black Men and Black Women of the National Academies of Sciences, Engineering, and Medicine convened a virtual workshop on September 2 and 3, 2020. Titled "Educational Pathways for Blacks in Science, Engineering, and Medicine: Exploring Barriers and Possible Interventions," the workshop provided a platform to explore challenges and opportunities, beginning in the earliest years of life through K-12 schooling, undergraduate and postgraduate education, and into the workforce. Presenters throughout the workshop provided perspectives from research and from their own experiences to discuss the need for systemic solutions inside and outside of formal education institutions. This publication summarizes the presentation and discussion of the workshop.Table of ContentsFront Matter1 Introduction2 Background and What Is Missing in Key Milestones and Existing Pathway Programs3 Teachers and Young Professionals: Perceived Obstacles, Real Barriers, and Potential Points of Intervention4 Review of Gaps and Barriers along the Pathway5 Impact of Finances on the Educational Pipeline6 Potential Interventions Inside and Outside the Educational Pipeline and Classroom7 Congressional and Concluding RemarksAppendix A: Workshop AgendaAppendix B: Biographies of Roundtable Members and Speakers