CANCELLED Opening Doors to STEM: Evidence-Based Strategies to Engage Girls

CANCELLED BY PRESENTERS 7.1.26 In this session, the British Science Association, along with colleagues from the Engineering UK 'gender pathways' project, will tackle gender inequity in STEM head-on. We'll explore how STEM projects like CREST Awards, Orbyts, and others can be powerful tools to engage girls, fostering curiosity, developing crucial skills, and providing authentic research experiences. Learn practical, evidence-based strategies and actions that teachers can implement to break down barriers and empower girls in STEM. Gender inequity in STEM remains a significant challenge, with research indicating that girls are less likely to pursue STEM subjects and careers than boys. This disparity is rooted in various factors, including societal stereotypes, a lack of role models, and unequal access to opportunities. The Engineering UK 'gender pathways' project has highlighted that the issue is less about girls' abilities and more about pathways & experiences in education, which can discourage even highly talented and interested girls. This session will draw on the projects findings-alongside other research, to showcase how STEM projects can create a more inclusive and engaging environment. We will also provide practical strategies to apply in the classroom. The aims of this session are to: > Highlight the impact of gender inequity in STEM education and careers, drawing on evidence from the Engineering UK 'gender pathways' project. > Introduce participants to STEM project initiatives: CREST Awards, Orbyts, and others, as tools for engagement. > Demonstrate how these projects can foster student engagement and develop essential STEM skills. > Provide practical, evidence-based strategies for implementing these projects inclusively in the classroom. > Share examples of successful project outcomes and teacher actions that have positively impacted girls' engagement. > Equip teachers with resources and support to address gender inequity in their classrooms. Participants will: > Gain a deeper understanding of the challenges and opportunities related to gender equity in STEM, informed by the Engineering UK 'gender pathways' project. > Develop knowledge of the CREST Awards, Orbyts, and IRIS programs, including their structures, resources, and potential for fostering girls' engagement. > Acquire practical, evidence-based strategies for implementing inclusive STEM projects, adaptable to different age groups and abilities. > Be inspired and empowered to take concrete actions to promote girls' engagement in STEM within their school communities. > Network with other educators interested in promoting equity in STEM education. Target Audience: This session is designed for primary and secondary science teachers, STEM coordinators, educators involved in extracurricular STEM activities, and anyone interested in promoting gender equity in STEM education. This session offers practical, evidence-based solutions to help teachers address a critical issue in STEM education. By showcasing the power of project-based learning, highlighting key findings from the Engineering UK 'gender pathways' project, and providing concrete strategies and teacher actions for implementation, it empowers educators to create more inclusive and equitable learning environments where all students, regardless of gender, can thrive.