Joshua B. Liggett

Papers

Total Citations

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About

Joshua B. Liggett’s research lies at the intersection of identity construction, STEM education, and equity, with a focus on how cultural labels like “geek” shape persistence in science and technology fields. His most cited work, “Geek As a Constructed Identity and a Crucial Component of Stem Persistence” (2014), challenges traditional narratives by arguing that the “geek” identity is not innate but socially constructed—and that embracing this identity can be a powerful tool for fostering STEM persistence among underrepresented groups. By reframing a historically exclusionary label as a potential asset, Liggett offers a novel lens for understanding how students navigate STEM pathways. While his citation count remains modest, his work contributes to critical conversations about diversity and belonging in STEM, particularly for students who may feel alienated by dominant cultural stereotypes. Liggett’s scholarship invites educators and researchers to reconsider how identity and culture intersect with academic success, making his contributions a valuable resource for those working to broaden participation in STEM fields.