ARE OUTREACH ACTIONS EFFECTIVE IN INCREASING THE REPRESENTATION OF WOMEN IN STEM FIELDS?
Universitat Jaume I de Castellón (SPAIN)
About this paper:
Conference name: 18th International Technology, Education and Development Conference
Dates: 4-6 March, 2024
Location: Valencia, Spain
Abstract:
The gender gap is a well-documented phenomenon in STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, Mathematics) fields globally. Spanish universities, including the Superior School of Technology and Experimental Sciences (ESTCE) at Universitat Jaume I (UJI), exhibit a significant underrepresentation of women in most STEM degree programs. This disparity can be attributed to underlying psychological and sociocultural factors, emphasizing the urgent need for proactive dissemination policies that enhance the visibility of women scientists, mathematicians, engineers, and architects, and foster STEM aspirations among young women.
This study aims to analyze the prevailing gender gap within STEM disciplines at ESTCE-UJI and examine its evolution in recent years, taking into account the dissemination initiatives implemented by UJI to promote women's participation in these fields. By correlating the gender gap trends with the university's outreach efforts, valuable insights can be gained to inform and improve future policies aimed at bridging the gender divide in STEM.Keywords:
Dissemination actions, STEM degrees, Women.