Gender, Science and Mathematics

The theme of this work is that change agents, such as teachers and curriculum writers, have a key role in the translation of gender equity policy into gender equitable practices in science and mathematics education. The first section emphasizes that a necessary prerequisite for successful action is for scientists, students, teachers, teacher trainees, curriculum writers and researchers to confront the many different and often conflicting perspectives on the relationship between gender, science and mathematics. The second section presents a number of analyses of the reality of schools, classrooms, curriculum and assessment. Finally, the third section describes a variety of projects that have achieved some success in bringing about more equitable science and mathematics education. Ways are suggested in which future research and action can build on these expectations. The book provides examples and adopts a practical approach. The research and thinking presented has a wide and general applicability. The book is designed for use throughout the world in university and college courses and by policy makers concerned with the gender/science/mathematics relationship.