Both boys and girls are as interested in math and science in elementary, however once in higher levels of education girls begin to lose interest. Women are making strides in STEM, but there are still not many females in the STEM field. For example, in physics, engineering, and computer science only 20% of women are awarded a bachelor's degree in those fields. There has been research conducted to conclude why females are underrepresented in STEM.
Studies show that one reason for the underrepresentation of females in STEM is the mindset of females. According to Dr. Drweck there are two mindsets growth and fixed. Those with fixed believe one is born with intelligence and that intelligence cannot be improved. The problem with this thinking is that when young women encounter a problem or cannot understand a concept they may give up. They feel like they are not smart enough, or else they would have gotten the concept the first time. I can personally relate to this type of thinking, because I feel like I myself have had this mindset at times. Girls with a growth mindset believe intelligence can improve with work, tend to have a higher confidence level. If they encounter a difficult task, they keep at it until they complete the task. Their confidence grows because they have increased their knowledge or ability.
Another reason for the lack of girls in STEM is because of the stereotypes. An example is the stereotype that boys are smarter than girls in math. When girls are aware of stereotypes it may cause a negative effect on their performance. Research showed that when a group of girls were expose to the stereotype mentioned above they did far worst than a group of girls who were not exposed to the stereotype.
http://www.prweb.com/releases/2011/girls-learn-technology/prweb8369604.htm
I do agree with the fact that stereotypes are a big factor in the lack of girls in STEM subjects. Obviously not all girls play into this stereotype(including Michelle and I), but those that do play into it would rather "fit in" to society by choosing careers in other fields. Hopefully in the future there will be less and less stereotypes to encourage girls to enter the STEM careers.
ReplyDeleteIs nursing considered STEM? The only reason I raise this questions is because I watched my wife go through nursing school. The funny thing in nursing is that it is dominated by women. There is actually a push in the field to lure more men into the profession.
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