Strategies for Encouraging Girls to Pursue Science
Role Models, Mentorship, and Extracurricular Activities
Overview
This module equips participants with actionable strategies to inspire and motivate girls to engage in science education and pursue STEM careers. It highlights the transformative impact of role models, mentorship programs, and extracurricular activities in challenging stereotypes and building confidence in female students. Through real-world examples and evidence-based approaches, participants will learn how to create supportive environments that empower girls to explore their scientific potential.
Module objectives
By the end of this module, participants will:
- Understand the importance of role models in shaping girls' aspirations and confidence in science.
- Explore mentorship as a tool for providing guidance and support to girls interested in STEM fields.
- Recognize the value of extracurricular activities in developing scientific skills and fostering a sense of belonging.
- Identify practical strategies to implement these approaches in schools, communities, and families.
Part 1. The Power of Role Models
Part 2. Mentorship: Building Bridges to STEM
Self-reflection questions:
1. What is the primary goal of mentoring in STEM fields for young women?
a) To teach only technical skills
b) To provide support, encouragement, and networking opportunities
c) To discourage women from pursuing STEM careers
d) To limit access to STEM education
2. What organization is mentioned as a significant initiative for mentoring women in STEM?
a) Women in Business Network
b) Girls Who Code
c) Million Women Mentors (MWM)
d) STEM for All
3. According to the text, at which educational level do mentors help girls find practical opportunities in STEM?
a) Primary school
b) Middle school
c) High school and university
d) Post-graduate
4. Which of the following is NOT a suggested way to find a mentor in STEM?
a) Attending STEM clubs and career fairs
b) Asking teachers or advisors
c) Avoiding networking events
d) Joining professional clubs or associations
5. What is the role of a mentor according to the text?
a) To direct career choices without input from the mentee
b) To provide guidance, share knowledge, and inspire young people in STEM
c) To replace formal education with mentoring
d) To focus solely on theoretical knowledge
Answers:
1. ✅ Correct answer: b) To provide support, encouragement, and networking opportunities
2. ✅ Correct answer: c) Million Women Mentors (MWM)
3. ✅ Correct answer: c) High school and university
4. ✅ Correct answer: c) Avoiding networking events
5. ✅ Correct answer: b) To provide guidance, share knowledge, and inspire young people in STEM
Part 3
Extracurricular Activities and Informal Learning
Discussion.
Part 4
Integrating Strategies into Everyday Practice
Discussion.