Our entire team has read the research report by the Association of American University Women (AAUW) that offers compelling evidence to help explain what is going on in the US with science, technology, math and science and women. By the way, in 1885, a group of AAUW members conducted a survey that debunked the popular theory that higher education was bad for women’s health. . . So, thanks to the organization for that one, and for more contemporary research on women in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) fields.
The comprehensive report, Why So Few? AAUW Report, presents amazing research findings on the subject. The report outlines 8 key issues, from environmental to social barriers (that include stereotypes, gender bias and the climate of science and engineering departments in colleges and universities) that continue to block women’s participation and progress in science, technology, engineering, and math. Up to date statistics on girls’ and women’s achievement and participation in these areas are also included in the report.
What we love about this report is that it offers solid ideas for what each of us can do to help open scientific and engineering fields to girls and women. Read it now! Make a game addressing one of the issues!