Yesterday in class we were asked to answer these two questions:
1) Why do you think girls tend to not consider science as a possible career option?
2) What can you do in your classroom to help girls make more informed choices about science careers?
To answer the first question, I think this is often because the things done in a science classroom often aren't things that most girls enjoy doing. I also think that teachers in high school don't tell students all the options that a career in science can have. I feel like they only see what they learn in the classroom and that science isn't any further marketed. Also, science is taught in a step-by-step method and frankly I found that very boring when I was a science student. If students can't stand science, why would they want a career in it?
To answer the second question I'm not really sure what I would be able to do specifically for girls' career choices because thats not something you generally talk about in kindergarten. I think my job as a teacher with kids this young would be to just make science fun and engaging for all of my students. Also, to try to talk about female scientist if possible. Another important thing would be to teach my students that scientists aren't just the stereotypical white, older male, in a lab, in a white lab-coat by himself. I will make sure my students understand that science is social and is fun.
