Concurrent 45 min

Studies on the Role of Insider Knowledge for STEM Experts and Aspiring STEM Adolescents

Friday, November 14, 2025

11:15 AM - 12:00 PM ET

Location: Convention Center, 406

Grade Level: 6-8, 9-12, Postsecondary, Professionals

Paula M. Olszewski-Kubilius

Faculty emeritus
Center for Talent Development Northwestern University
Darien, Illinois, United States
Rena F. Subotnik

Research Associate
University of California, Berkeley
Washington DC, District of Columbia, United States
Frank C. Worrell

Distinguished Professor
University of California, Berkeley
Berkeley, California, United States

Short Description: This presentation will describe the results of two qualitative studies investigating the role of insider knowledge in the talent development of STEM experts and gifted adolescents taking STEM enrichment classes. Results suggest that expert benefited from insider knowledge via supportive mentors. Adolescents desired more information about career paths and perceived competition for grades and colleges as their main challenges.

Learning Objectives:

Participants will be able to define insider knowledge and describe its role in talent development
Participants will learn what types of insider knowledge is helpful to the development of STEM talent
Participants will be able to identify ways in which insider knowledge can be made more explicit to adolescents aspiring to STEM careers