Shrink the Gap: Environmental and Individual Strategies Enhancing Females' Belongingness in STEM

• In Event: 61.016 - Equity and Diversity in Science Teaching and Learning

Abstract

In a male-dominated field such as STEM, how does a women’s desire to belong affect her professional accomplishments? There is a significant body of research in the area of the gender gap in STEM education and the importance of belongingness. In this poster, we will present a comprehensive literature review of the external and internal factors influencing women’s belongingness in STEM. Overall we propose that a student’s sense of belongingness in the STEM field can ultimately determine their retention in their major and their future professional success.

Authors

• Bobbie Bermudez, University of Oregon

• Mengfan Zhai, University of Oregon

• Jenefer E. Husman, University of Oregon

• Zige Zhao, University of Oregon

• Shawn Andrew Lampkins-Uthando, University of Oregon