Expose girls to female role models who have succeeded in math and science¶

Strategy · All strategies
Evidence · no claims cited

Description¶

Teachers should expose girls to female role models who have achieved in math or science to promote positive beliefs about women's abilities, because even in elementary school girls are aware of the stereotype that men are better in math and science. The guide states that "Exposing girls to female role models (e.g., through biographies, guest speakers, or tutoring by older female students) can invalidate these stereotypes." Concrete steps include inviting guest speakers or tutors, assigning biographical readings, highlighting current events about women's achievements, and sharing information about mentoring programs.

Design Implications¶

Context¶

Requirements¶

• Access to women who have succeeded in math- or science-related courses and professions as speakers, tutors, or biography subjects
• Parental involvement in providing exposure to women working in these fields

Constraints¶

• The panel rated the supporting evidence Low, based on expert opinion and studies not meeting moderate or strong standards

Target Learners¶

• Girls and young women in elementary, middle, and high school

Target Learning Goals¶

• Positive beliefs regarding women's abilities in math and science
• Awareness of math- and science-related career pathways for women

Related Strategies¶

• Cultivating Belonging Through Environmental Cues

Examples¶

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Key Sources¶

• Halpern, D., Aronson, J., Reimer, N., Simpkins, S., Star, J., and Wentzel, K. (2007). Encouraging Girls in Math and Science (NCER 2007-2003). Washington, DC: National Center for Education Research, Institute of Education Sciences, U.S. Department of Education. https://ies.ed.gov/ncee/wwc/PracticeGuide/5