In spite of what many people might think, women's brains are not hard-wired only to perform certain functions. Gender difference does not mean that female brains are any less capable of grasping concepts like science, technology, engineering and mathematics. But these stereotypes have been part of society for many years and are nothing but myths.
Here are 5 other common myths about women and science and other STEM (Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics) careers:
Myth #1 - Girls have less of an interest in science than boys - a recent study of elementary school fourth graders showed both girls and boys had almost equal interest in science, with girls at 66 percent and boys at 68 percent.
Myth #2 - Efforts to increase girls' interest in STEM subjects will result in losing the interest of boys - not at all. Educators have proven that increased interest in STEM subjects by girls actually increases even more interest by boys.
Myth #3 - Educator bias towards boys in STEM subjects no longer exists - sadly, this is not true. Many teachers still lean towards boys when it comes to STEM subjects. However, good educators realize that everyone in the class benefits when both girls and boys are given equal amounts of assistance with STEM subjects.
Myth #4 - Parents cannot motivate girls to become interested in science - totally not true. With the support and encouragement of both teachers and parents, an interest in STEM courses can be cultivated in girls, especially if they are made aware of the career opportunities open to them by pursuing STEM studies.
Myth #5 - Girls in college STEM courses must sink or swim - the fact is that STEM studies are difficult for both girls and boys, and girls tend to expect better grades in these studies than boys. So, colleges do well to offer bridge programs that help both female and male students better prepare for the challenge of STEM coursework.
Bust the 'Girls in STEM' myths -- women in STEM careers are here to stay!
To read more, visit www.livescience.com/40572-myths-girls-math-science.html
