U.K. exam board science specifications reveal gender gap that may influence girls' STEM choices
An absence of women scientists in U.K. exam board specifications for science could be a factor in the disproportionate number of girls dropping STEM subjects at 16 and contribute to the gender gap in STEM careers, new research from the University of Cambridge has found.
New research from the University of Cambridge suggests that the gender gap in UK STEM choices may be influenced by the limited representation of women scientists in exam board specifications. Out of 86 scientists mentioned in the key stage 4 specifications, only Rosalind Franklin is featured, and even then, only once. The researchers argue that minor adjustments could incorporate significant contributions of women, such as Rosalind Franklin, Marie Curie, and Lise Meitner, into existing teaching frameworks.
They suggest that increased exposure to relatable role models can help retain girls in STEM subjects, particularly physics and mathematics, which have a higher uptake among boys at key stage 5. The study published in the British Educational Research Journal highlights the importance of including women's achievements to inspire more girls to pursue STEM careers.
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