Gender Stereotypes and STEM Education: Global and Local Perspectives

Abstract Submissions Closed

RC42 Social Psychology (host committee)
RC04 Sociology of Education

Language: English


The purpose of this joint session is to discuss the effects of gender stereotypes, both for males and females, on the choice of academic specialisation in specific fields within science, technology, engineering and mathematics (STEM). This topic also includes reasons for dropping out or leaving STEM studies after they have begun. A further goal is to explain the unequal representation of males and females not only in STEM overall, but particularly within subfields of STEM, e.g. life sciences and physical sciences. Papers are also invited which focus on education and subsequent gender inequality in STEM career patterns. 
In the session we want to address cross-cultural differences in both the stereotypes and in their effects. Therefore analyses of contextual effects are particularly welcome. Papers should focus on both social, psychological and educational factors, and should address the content, and the positive and negative effects of gender stereotypes in different social and cultural settings. We want to arrive at a better understanding of how gender stereotypes work, and the extent to which policy initiatives might be developed to either change the stereotypes or neutralize their impact. Both quantitative and qualitative papers are welcome.
Session Organizers:
Lawrence SAHA, Australian National University, Australia, lawrence.saha@anu.edu.au
Joanna SIKORA, Australian National University, Australia, joanna.sikora@anu.edu.au
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