Who Are Caught in a Double Bind? Gender Gap in STEM Major Among Different Asian American Ethnic Subgroup

• In Event: Beyond U.S. Higher Education: Global Perspectives in Higher Education

Abstract

Using a nationally representative HSLS:09 dataset, this study examines the complexities of gender disparities in STEM major choice among different Asian-American ethnic subgroups. We found significant gender gaps in STEM majors in Vietnamese/Thai and Filipino groups, but no differences within Chinese, Indian/Sri Lankan, and Japanese/Korean groups. Among the Vietnamese/Thai group, the gender gap is partially attributed to the relatively lower math self-efficacy among female students as compared to their counterparts, but the math self-efficacy does not explain the gender gap among Filipino students. STEM educators and school counselors should empower Vietnamese/Thai female students to cope with the social pressures linked to model minority myths and promote confidence in their skills and capabilities to succeed in math within this group.

Authors

• Chungseo Kang, Korean Educational Development Institute
  Presenting Author

• Hyunmyung Jo, Seoul National University
  Presenting Author

• Seong Won Han, University at Buffalo - SUNY
  Presenting Author

• Lois Weis, University at Buffalo - SUNY
  Presenting Author