July 1, 2015

Narrowing the STEM Gender Gap

Narrowing the STEM Gender Gap

It’s all too common for people to think of science and technology fields as male-dominated. The gender gap that exists in the science, technology, engineering and math (STEM) fields has been well-documented throughout the world and has failed to make any significant changes over the years. The amount of women graduating with degrees in STEM-based fields is far less than their male counterparts. Due to the fact that these statistics tend to stay the same year after year, increasing gender diversity in the STEM fields has become be a key goal among many in the industry. There have been countless recruiting and incentive programs focused on bringing more women into STEM that have been met with some success.  But while trying to increasing the amount of women currently in the STEM fields can help solve the gender imbalance for now, we must also plant the seeds for future generations.

How Can We Interest More Women in STEM Careers?

It is up to all of us to help create an environment where young women to learn and feel empowered by STEM topics in order to keep it as a part of their lives.

Early childhood and adolescence are two very critical stages in a woman’s life. If a young girl grows up in an environment where boys receive preferential treatment or are looked upon to be smarter, this can have a profound negative effect on their self-esteem and their perception of the world moving forward. If a young woman grows up and sees that math, science and engineering courses are mostly taken by male students and taught by male teachers, this can be an intimating factor that can keep her from ever developing an interest in any STEM fields altogether.

The key to creating a more diverse group involved in STEM lies in keeping the learning process inclusive, fun and engaging for everyone. Enrichment programs such as those offered by e² Young Engineers offers both boys and girls a unique enrichment experience through their entertaining, hands-on learning platform. With courses taught by male and female instructors, they take time to ensure that each individual child is given the right amount of attention and guidance to reach their full potential.

e² Young Engineers sessions provide theoretical knowledge and practical implementation in science, technology, engineering and mathematics basics through the use of K’nex®, Engino® and LEGO® brick kits and specialized lesson plans to ensure that concepts are not only learned properly, but are retained as the child grows.

By getting girls involved in STEM at a young age, we can help to narrow the gender gap for the future.