Alexis Spina
Papers
1
Total Citations
16
H-Index
1
About
Alexis Spina is a scholar whose research lies at the intersection of engineering education, identity development, and equity. Her work investigates how collaborative design experiences can foster early engineering identity, particularly among young girls, to narrow the persistent gender gap in the field. In her most-cited study, she argues that gendered attitudes toward engineering solidify as early as kindergarten, and that identity—more than academic performance—is the key predictor of persistence. Through qualitative analysis of elementary students, Spina demonstrates that collaborative, hands-on design activities can help girls see themselves as engineers, offering a powerful, evidence-based pathway for inclusive pedagogy. With 16 citations on this foundational paper, her work is shaping conversations in K–12 STEM education and informing curriculum design. Spina’s research is notable for its focus on early intervention and its emphasis on identity as a lever for equity, making her a vital voice in efforts to diversify engineering from the ground up.
Research Focus
Key Achievements
Top Papers
- 1