Women in STEM
Gender gap with respect to mathematical abilities
Context: Across the world, women remain underrepresented in STEM fields (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics)—a gap that limits innovation, perpetuates workplace inequality, and narrows research perspectives.
When Does the Maths Gender Gap Begin?
- According to a recent study published in Nature by researchers in France, the gender gap in mathematics emerges within the first year of formal schooling, despite boys and girls starting with similar mathematical abilities.
- The study tracked 2.65 million children aged 5–7 in France between 2018 and 2022 using data from EvalAide, a nationwide test assessing language and mathematics skills.
- In 2018, boys and girls entered school with nearly identical average maths scores. However, within just four months, a small but significant gap emerged in favour of boys.
- By the second year, twice as many boys were among the top 5% of performers.
- This trend was consistent across all socio-economic groups, school types, and regions.
What Do the Study’s Findings Reveal About Socio-Economic Influences?
- Interestingly, the maths gender gap was wider in high-income families, especially where both parents were in scientific professions.
- This trend was not seen in language performance. The researchers suggest that this may reflect a stronger influence of gender stereotypes and competitive academic environments in wealthier households.
Is There Any Biological Basis Behind the Maths Gender Gap?
- The findings strongly indicate that there are no fundamental gender-based differences in mathematical aptitude at the start of school.
- The gap is a learned and socialised phenomenon, emerging after children begin formal education.
What Factors Contribute to the Emergence of the Gender Gap?
- Stereotypes: The perception that “boys are better at maths” may influence both teachers’ and parents’ expectations.
- Math Anxiety: Girls are often taught to fear competitive environments and time-bound assessments, which worsens performance.
- Teacher Bias: Teachers may unconsciously assign different cognitive roles, encouraging boys in logical subjects and girls in reading.
- Labelling Effect: As math-related activities become explicitly categorised during early schooling, gender norms begin to take hold.
How Can Teachers and Parents Help Bridge the Gender Gap in Maths?
- The researchers advocate for improved teacher training to ensure balanced engagement with both boys and girls. Teachers should be trained to:
- Encourage participation equally across genders during maths lessons.
- Develop confidence in teaching maths, especially in countries like France where most primary teachers are women.
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- Avoid reinforcing gender-based stereotypes around diligence vs intellect.
Government Initiatives
KIRAN (Knowledge Involvement in Research Advancement through Nurturing): Launched by the Department of Science & Technology, KIRAN supports women scientists through fellowships, funding, and mentorship—especially for those returning after career breaks.
Women Scientist Scheme (WOS): Offers financial aid across three categories:
- WOS-A: Basic and applied research
- WOS-B: Technology development
- WOS-C: Internships in Intellectual Property Rights
GATI (Gender Advancement for Transforming Institutions): Promotes gender equality in STEM institutions by creating inclusive work environments and enhancing women’s participation in leadership roles.
INSPIRE (Innovation in Science Pursuit for Inspired Research): Encourages young women to pursue science careers with scholarships, internships, and research fellowships.
WEST (Women in Engineering, Science, and Technology): Focuses on skill-building, research funding, and global collaborations to enhance women’s presence in STEM.
