STEM fields that are not related to life or social sciences are dominated by men, reflecting a gender gap in STEM higher education. Combating the gender gap will start with purposeful policies and opportunities aimed at elementary and secondary school aged girls. The author designed a week-long, low pressure authentic biology research experience for high school aged girls. The experience emphasizes the importance of all STEM fields and the value of each student’s background and culture in diversifying the greater STEM community. The hypothesis is that this and similar programs will increase positive associations with STEM and demystify potential STEM careers for women, which will be essential in encouraging girls to choose careers in STEM and closing the workforce gender gap.

• This report represents the work of one or more WPI undergraduate students submitted to the faculty as evidence of completion of a degree requirement. WPI routinely publishes these reports on its website without editorial or peer review.

Creator

• Varteresian, Kate M.

Publisher

• Worcester Polytechnic Institute

Identifier

• E-project-042921-111203
• 20576

Keyword

• Authentic Research Experience
• Women in STEM
• High School STEM Education
• Biology Research
• STEM Education

Advisor

• Buckholt, Michael Allan
• Rulfs, Jill

Year

• 2021

Date created

• 2021-04-29

Resource type

• Major Qualifying Project

Major

• Biology & Biotechnology

Rights statement

• In Copyright

Last modified

• 2021-08-28