Gendered Differences in Engagement and Pathways to STEM Careers

• In Event: Postsecondary Opportunities and Trajectories

Abstract

Educational attainment remains gendered among some countries and within specific fields. In the U.S., female and male high school students report significantly different levels of interest and ability in the physical sciences. This paper uses U.S. longitudinal data to explore the relationship between math and science engagement and female and male selections of college majors. Results show that entry to select scientific and technical fields in postsecondary school is strongly predicted by gendered differences in adolescents’ engagement in mathematics and confidence in their math ability. These findings are discussed in relation to gender differences in STEM careers across countries, providing additional evidence regarding the potential role of stereotypic beliefs on females’ postsecondary education and career pursuits.

Authors

• Lara Perez-Felkner, Florida State University

• Barbara Schneider, Michigan State University

• Sarah-Kathryn McDonald, NORC at the University of Chicago