Gender Differences in Mathematics Achievements: A Cross-National Meta-Analysis of Modern Students

• In Event: 21.045 - Stem Through an International Lens

Abstract

This study uses TIMSS 2015 and Global Gender Gap Report, 2017 to compare boys’ and girls’ mathematics achievements and investigate the predictors of the existing differences. It utilizes data for both fourth and eighth graders’ math achievements cross-nationally. It also tests the Gender Stratification Hypothesis utilizing gender equity standards. While the overall difference is negligible, the findings suggest that lower equity in economic, educational, and political attainment and empowerment does not necessarily lead to lower math achievement for girls. Findings also suggest that the gender difference trend has inclined towards females’ better achievements, since the administration of TIMSS in 2003 and provide further support for Gender Similarities Hypothesis.

Authors

• Ehsan Ghasemi, Texas Tech University

• Hansel Burley, Texas Tech University