Women in Science and Technology

Women in Science and Technology

Image taken from: http://www.uvu.edu/cte/wistem/

Women in Science and Technology - What Does the Literature Say?

Although, we know that women have played a key role in advancements in the evolution of science and technology, from being the first "human computers" during war efforts to having a hand in further advancing computer technology in the early twentieth century.  According to this report (link above), there is a big gap in the number of skilled professional women who are disciplined in science, technology, engineering, and mathematics (STEM). 

It would further seem that the lack of women acquiring these skills hinders the ability for a nation to achieve technological advancements needed for the populace to grow as a nation.  It is documented that obtaining the right balance between men and women in STEM offers a full comprehensive understanding of a specific subject than not.  And by having a more inclusive workforce that includes a diverse group of backgrounds, cultures and interests aids in the development of innovation and productivity. 

"The untapped potential of fully trained and credentialed women who might be interested in STEM but choose not to pursue degrees in these fields or who decide to change careers because of obstacles, real or perceived, represents an important lost opportunity not only for women themselves but also for society as a whole" (Castillo, R., Grazzi, M, & Tacsir, E., 2014)

Some of these perceived obstacles as indicated within this report remain the many stereotypes that continue to haunt women to this day; such as women are not as motivated as men, women are more interested in family rather than careers and women are not as competitive as men.  This report does a fine job at debunking these myths but how can we as a society encourage more women to pursue education in STEM?