One could rightly observe that enrolment of female children in Science, Technology, Engineering and Mathematics (STEM) disciplines is not at par with their male counterparts. This mismatch in enrolment is influenced by many factors, too numerous to mention. As parents, guardians, mentors or teachers, how can we stimulate the interests of our female children in STEM? Sharing is caring. Thanks!!!
The answer to this question, listing the possibilities as well as the existing experiences of different countries, is as multifaceted as the factors of why this is the case and why we are dealing with such an issue. It also depends heavily on the local context - culture, history of the problem, etc. As a matter of fact, it is necessary not to divide children of both sexes in creating educational and practical sessions for them, and if there is such a division, to create their own "girls'" offerings as well. An example of an experience from my country (Germany):
https://www.girls-day.de/fakten-zum-girls-day/das-ist-der-girls-day/ein-zukunftstag-fuer-maedchen/english
@ Dr. Sergey Mukhametov Thank for your insightful contribution. It is well appreciated.
There is no substitute for enthusiastic and committed teachers here, Seyi, as in most other areas. Look at the natural world, look at the stars - all pupils should be encouraged to take in interest in the world around them. The following might prove useful:
https://theconversation.com/heres-how-to-encourage-more-girls-to-pursue-science-and-math-careers-98229
https://www.bgca.org/news-stories/2020/October/Motivating-Girls-to-Pursue-Careers-in-STEM
Best wishes for all the work!
@ Prof. Terry Hyland Thanks for your insightful response and useful links. Well appreciated Sir.
Encourage young girls to pursue careers in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM).
We will gain a lot as a country if we expose young girls to STEM subjects and encourage those who are interested to pursue their hearts and minds. Simply focusing on one age group will not solve all of the cultural concerns that influence female employment choices. Correcting girls' unfavourable ideas about math and science at a young age, on the other hand, can encourage them to embrace the courses in high school rather than avoid them. If we want to dissuade females from taking a different path, administrators and educators must work hard to create welcoming cultures in high school and college math and science programmes. As long as young boys and girls are exposed to it, it will continue to be a problem.
There are many ways through which the girl child’s interest in STEM education can be enhanced. Some of these are:
- Exposing Girls to STEAM at an early stage
- Encourage Women Participation in STEAM Related Workshops and Seminars
- Sponsorship of STEAM Activities by Companies, Organizations and NGOs
- Involving Women in Curriculum Planning and Policy Development
- Involve Women as Facilitators at Workshops, Seminars and Summer Camps
- Mentoring
- Creating More Awareness
- Encourage Women to Engage in International and National Collaborative Scientific Research. https://jofeganintschool.com/strategies-for-increasing-the-girl-childs-interest-in-science-technology-engineering-and-mathematics-steam-careers/?utm_source=rss&utm_medium=rss&utm_campaign=strategies-for-increasing-the-girl-childs-interest-in-science-technology-engineering-and-mathematics-steam-careers
@ Dr. Manal Hadi Kanaan Many thanks for your valued contribution. Best regards!!!