Image: Martin Pabis
Image: University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria
How can we succeed in getting girls and young women interested in mathematics, computer science, natural sciences and technology (MINT)? The MINTality Foundation (founder and board member: Therese Nisspicture above) conducted a survey among 1,500 participants on this topic in cooperation with the Hagenberg University of Applied Sciences: “Interest always comes first before competence. Sparking this interest in MINT topics must be successful in kindergarten and then in elementary school “, says study author Martina Gaisch.
Image: University of Applied Sciences Upper Austria
The study shows that much more educational work is needed: 71.5 percent of those surveyed stated that they did not know what the term STEM stands for. According to Niss, not only the scientist of the year and the board member of the industrial group are good role models, but also the mathematician next door. In addition, you have to show how diverse and creative MINT professions are.
Many respondents also stated that they are familiar with stereotypes ranging from “Computer science is for nerds” to “Technicians are unfeminine”. Only 18 percent say they were encouraged to pursue a STEM career at home. According to Niss, the term MINT must be filled with concrete content. Male family members and educators should encourage girls.
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