Research-informed practices for inclusive science, technology, engineering, and math (stem) classrooms: Strategies for educators to close the gender gap

Abstract

The underrepresentation and attrition of women students in science, technology, engineering, and math (STEM) fields is a widely acknowledged, complex problem for which solutions will be multi-faceted. However, while a large body of research examines factors that influence girls' and women's experiences in these fields, many STEM educators at the K-12 level may be unfamiliar with the most recent research on gender's relation to STEM classes. This paper aims to bridge research to practice by identifying strategies for educators as they work to capture students' interest in STEM and retain students who are already interested. Seven "key practices" for creating gender-inclusive STEM classrooms were identified through a comprehensive literature review of social science research in gender and education. This research indicates, moreover, that the benefits of most practices can be broadened to all STEM students. The paper begins with an overview of the conceptual and methodological approach to the literature review process, and then presents and discusses the seven practices and supporting research. We then turn to recommending implementation strategies for educators to make courses more inclusive. The strategies are followed by a brief outline of suggested directions for future research. ©American Society for Engineering education, 2013.