The process described in this paper demonstrates that the Upper Elementary and Middle/High SSTEM
Surveys are valid and reliable instruments. The researchers found that both surveys have four,
clear constructs measuring student attitudes toward science, math, engineering and technology, and
21st century skills. These constructs can help measure the impact of various interventions on student
interest and confidence in STEM subjects, including programs that implement new curricula, use
new instructional strategies, or provide new learning opportunities. The science construct consists of
nine items; the math construct consists of eight items; and the engineering and technology construct
and 21st century skills construct both consist of eleven items. The authors calculated reliability
levels for the four constructs to be above 0.83. Both surveys also have a comprehensive section
measuring student career interests. The items in this construct can help schools, organizations, or
researchers determine the degree to which a program has influenced student-interest in 12 STEM
career pathways ranging from physics to medicine.