Barriers for Women in Stem: Stereotype Threat

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Barriers for Women in Stem: Stereotype Threat
Research has shown that women occupy only 24% of STEM occupations; this is despite the fact that women constitute about half (49%) of the entire workforce in the US((NSF)). This poses a tricky question as to why half of the population would fill such a small portion, estimated at 20 million jobs? The response is our beliefs, acting in different forms ranging from elusive stereotyping and embedded bias to deliberate illiteracy and blatant discrimination. However, as a result of foreseen shortage of trained STEM specialists, the persistent barrier of chauvinism is now looked at considerably (Qualia).
Stereotypical viewpoint gives an idea that women are usually less interested in technology and math. This is a perception so widespread in today’s US society and the educational system that needs considerable attention. Conversely, research has proven that girls generally perform to the same level as their counterpart boys in school. Performance is at per provided that the girl child is encouraged, with the right tools and access to role models (Senior).
In my time in school, from elementary to high school,I have seen young girls struggle with, not being aware or not knowing enough about STEM career opportunities available in the field. The math and science classes are usually taken by male teachers that instill the perception that they are meant for men only. Teachers at times try to make the connection between the real-world abilities and interests of girls and a prospect profession. Connection could be as simple as the girl who likes lipstick using chemistry to design her own brand or another who loves reuse of products and items,directing that into engineering to come up ...