Where are the female scientists in high school curricula?
Oct 4, 2023
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Dr. Kathryn Ross discusses the gender bias in high school science curricula, highlighting the minimal representation of female scientists. The podcast explores the exclusion and challenges teachers face in providing accurate representation. It also highlights the significant contributions of female scientists in various fields and advocates for a more inclusive approach to teaching scientific concepts.
The research reveals a significant underrepresentation of female scientists in Australian high school science curricula.
The podcast emphasizes the importance of authentic and relatable female role models in STEM fields to encourage students' pursuit of STEM careers.
Deep dives
Gender Bias in Science Education
The podcast explores the research conducted by Dr. Catherine Ross on the gender bias present in Australian high school science curricula. The study found that out of 145 unique scientists mentioned, only one is a woman. The representation of women in STEM studies and careers is discussed, highlighting the underrepresentation of women in these fields. The lack of diverse role models and the Eurocentric focus in the curriculum are also addressed. Suggestions are given for including notable female scientists in the syllabus, such as Rosalind Franklin, Marie Curie, Fiona Wood, and Emma Johnston. The podcast emphasizes the need for a fundamental review of science education and the inclusion of modern applications and student-led research.
The Importance of Role Models
The podcast underscores the significance of female role models in STEM fields and the lack thereof in science curricula. Studies show that a sense of belonging and relatable role models are crucial for students pursuing STEM careers. The podcast highlights the need for authentic and relatable role models at every stage, and not just the portrayal of lone male geniuses. Examples of notable female scientists are suggested, including Nettie Stevens, Mary Curie, Dorothea Croft Hodgkin, and Michelle Simmons.
Eurocentric Focus and Lack of Aboriginal Science
The podcast discusses the Eurocentric focus of science curricula and the lack of representation of Aboriginal and Torres Strait Islander histories and cultures. Despite the emphasis on diversity and global collaboration in science education, over 75% of the mentions of scientists come from Europe. Furthermore, there is a lack of explicit instruction for teachers to include Aboriginal science and Indigenous knowledge. The need for a broader context and inclusion of Aboriginal scientists is emphasized.
Call for Change in Science Education
The podcast concludes with a call for a fundamental review of science education to address the gender bias and Eurocentric focus in curricula. It is suggested that a shift towards teaching modern applications of science, student-led projects, and inclusive representation of scientists is necessary. The 'Include Her' program, developed by Dr. Ross and her team, aims to work with teachers to adapt lesson plans, provide free resources, and foster inclusive discussions on women in STEM.
Have a guess at these 2 questions first of all: How many scientists are mentioned in high school science curricula here in Australia? How many of those do you think are women? After discovering that Marie Curie wasn’t even mentioned in the radioactivity section of one state Physics syllabus, astrophysicist Dr Kathryn Ross set out to explore if the contributions of other women were being overlooked. The fact that the research team found a gender bias probably won’t surprise you, but the extent of it will. Kat, who is an Associate Lecturer and Science Communicator at the International Centre for Radio Astronomy Research (ICRAR) at Curtin University, joins us to share the shocking findings and implications, and what can be done to improve the situation.
Host: Jo Earp
Guest: Dr Kathryn Ross
Sponsor: MacKillop Seasons
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