Chapter 1: Debunking the Myths

Recent research challenges the long-standing belief that girls lack skills in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) fields. Instead, it suggests that social pressures may be the primary barrier keeping them from these careers.

Photo by Phong Duong on Unsplash

A recent study has surfaced that calls for our attention. Have you heard the common narrative pushed by certain tech enthusiasts—that men inherently excel in math and science? This notion posits that evolutionary factors have gifted men a unique advantage in these subjects, enabling them to excel and often speak unwarranted claims.

Fortunately, the findings of this study could challenge this myth. Researchers evaluated the data from 70,000 high school students over a decade and discovered that girls perform equally well, if not better, in STEM subjects.

The significant difference observed was that girls outperformed boys in the humanities, while their STEM scores were comparable.

These results effectively dispel the myth of an inherent biological disadvantage for girls in math and science. Instead, the research suggests that girls may possess an intrinsic advantage in language skills.

If you are skeptical about whether high school performance truly reflects innate abilities, consider these studies:

1. Findings indicate no significant differences in numeracy skills between genders during early developmental stages, suggesting equal potential in quantitative abilities.
2. Research also shows that female infants tend to develop language skills more rapidly than their male counterparts.

Moreover, the study highlighted that a girl’s career choices in STEM are heavily influenced by how her capabilities compare to those of her peers. This comparative perspective does not appear to affect boys' career decisions similarly.

The data indicates that if a girl’s performance in STEM is less impressive compared to her peers, even if her raw scores are on par, she may be less inclined to pursue a STEM career.

It remains unclear whether this tendency to base decisions on peer comparisons is biologically rooted or a consequence of social conditioning. The authors of the study suggest that negative feedback in STEM subjects may impact girls more significantly than boys, possibly exacerbated by societal stereotypes and teacher perceptions.

In essence, the evidence suggests that girls possess equal potential in STEM. It's crucial that we recognize this capability from an early age and cultivate an environment that reflects it.

Chapter 2: The Importance of Diverse Perspectives in STEM

Having strengths in language and the humanities can significantly enhance women’s contributions to science and technology. These skills not only diversify but also humanize the practice of STEM. However, this broad skill set is often wrongly perceived as a disadvantage.

With over ten years of experience in various STEM sectors, I've noticed that skills in arts and humanities can sometimes be dismissed as trivial distractions from the more "serious" sciences. This perspective is detrimental and stands in stark contrast to what is needed for the advancement of STEM fields in ways that benefit society.

The reality is that STEM domains have largely been shaped by men, frequently without the insights of those who possess equal, if not broader, skill sets. This raises the question: is this the pinnacle of science and technology? My answer is a resounding no.

Once we achieve equal representation of women in STEM, the landscape will inevitably transform for the better. Keep an eye out for this change.

The first video, "MOVE OVER BOYS: Why we need more girls/women in STEM Careers" by Hilary Lappin-Scott at TEDxSwansea, discusses the essential role of women in STEM fields and the barriers they face.

The second video, "Hiding in Plain Sight: Girls in STEM" by Ajla Gasal at TEDxArendal, highlights the challenges and potential of girls in STEM, reinforcing the need for greater representation and support.