Students with disabilities (SWDs) are less likely to establish themselves successfully in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) careers. Researchers have identified barriers to participation in STEM, including deficits in mathematics and science, executive functioning skills, self-efficacy, and lack of exposure to STEM experiences. Researchers found students who participate in STEM clubs have higher grades in STEM content areas, have better attitudes toward school, and are more likely to graduate. This study aimed to understand student and parent perceptions about the influences and challenges to participation in STEM clubs. The researchers used a sequential explanatory mixed-methods design that began with a survey, followed by focus groups and interviews with parents and SWDs. We identified four salient meta-themes regarding what influences students to join and stay in a STEM club: fun and the subject matter, social and peer interactions, parent and teacher initiative, and a “semblance of normal.” In addition, we identified meta-themes on the barriers for SWDs to join and stay in STEM clubs. These include being a good fit, having no student interest, others not making accommodations, and overwhelmed parents. The researchers conclude with implications for educators to make STEM clubs more inclusive.

残疾学生 (SWD) 不太可能在科学、技术、工程和数学 (STEM) 职业中取得成功。研究人员已经确定了参与 STEM 的障碍，包括数学和科学方面的缺陷、执行功能技能、自我效能以及缺乏 STEM 经验。研究人员发现，参加 STEM 俱乐部的学生在 STEM 内容领域的成绩更高，对学校的态度更好，并且更有可能毕业。本研究旨在了解学生和家长对参与 STEM 俱乐部的影响和挑战的看法。研究人员使用顺序解释混合方法设计，从调查开始，然后是焦点小组和对父母和 SWD 的采访。我们确定了关于影响学生加入和留在 STEM 俱乐部的四个重要元主题：乐趣和主题、社交和同伴互动、家长和老师的主动性以及“表面上的正常”。此外，我们确定了关于 SWD 加入和留在 STEM 俱乐部的障碍的元主题。这些包括身体健康、对学生没有兴趣、其他人不提供住宿以及不知所措的父母。研究人员总结出对教育工作者的影响，使 STEM 俱乐部更具包容性。其他人不提供住宿，让父母不知所措。研究人员总结出对教育工作者的影响，使 STEM 俱乐部更具包容性。其他人不提供住宿，让父母不知所措。研究人员总结出对教育工作者的影响，使 STEM 俱乐部更具包容性。