Gender GAP
A STEAM gender gap still exists in the 21st century.
STEAM fields are notably important for innovation and technological development, which in turn are seen as drivers of social and economic growth. Hence researchers and policymakers have paid substantial attention to analyzing and promoting high-growth ventures in STEAM fields. However, STEAM fields are highly gendered skewed, regardless of whether the population considered is students, faculty members, graduates, top managers, or entrepreneurs with STEAM backgrounds. This underrepresentation of women in innovation-driven business startups highlights existing gender biases and systemic disadvantages in social structures, making visible the double masculinity that exists at the intersection of STEAM entrepreneurship.
Recent research says girls are willing to pursue STEAM subjects, but they have self-doubt in themselves (for example boys do better in mathematics assumption). Lack of self-confidence plays a major role in selecting STEAM as a higher study.
Another example is when a scientist achieved an established position, for males, this is the first step in a ladder of career progression, whereas, for females, it raises questions on lifestyle choices.
Two other common barriers for women are
- NETWORKING
- FUNDING
Females mostly change their career aspirations by age 25 to either gender-neutral or female-dominated careers. A strong and major significant reason to change their career aspiration is a desire for job flexibility.
