The gender gap in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) is a global issue. Despite progress in recent years, significant barriers continue to hinder women's entry and persistence in STEM disciplines. This study examines the multifaceted barriers that prevent women from entering and continuing in STEM disciplines through interviews with high school schoolers. The findings highlight challenges such as gender stereotypes, the lack of role models, and insufficient encouragement from educational environments. The study proposes interventions to increase women's engagement in STEM, including mentoring programs, integration of STEM in early education, and increased institutional support. These recommendations aim to inspire a new generation of women to explore and succeed in STEM fields, thus contributing to a more balanced workforce.
Citation: Rrezart Prebreza, Bleona Beqiraj, Besart Prebreza, Arianit Krypa, Marigona Krypa. Factors influencing the lower number of women in STEM compared to men: A case study from Kosovo[J]. STEM Education, 2025, 5(1): 19-40. doi: 10.3934/steme.2025002
The gender gap in Science, Technology, Engineering, and Mathematics (STEM) is a global issue. Despite progress in recent years, significant barriers continue to hinder women's entry and persistence in STEM disciplines. This study examines the multifaceted barriers that prevent women from entering and continuing in STEM disciplines through interviews with high school schoolers. The findings highlight challenges such as gender stereotypes, the lack of role models, and insufficient encouragement from educational environments. The study proposes interventions to increase women's engagement in STEM, including mentoring programs, integration of STEM in early education, and increased institutional support. These recommendations aim to inspire a new generation of women to explore and succeed in STEM fields, thus contributing to a more balanced workforce.
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